Tuesday, February 20, is "National Love Your Pet Day",
It's a day dedicated to expressing love and appreciation for our furry, feathered, or scaly friends.
National Love Your Pet Day began in 2006 by Animal Behaviorist and Pet Lifestyle Expert Colleen Paige to celebrate our beloved animal companions.
Most households in the United States have at least one pet.
We are rated #1 in the world for owning dogs and cats.
Brazil is in second for dogs and China for cats.
Dogs are the most popular pet in the U.S. (65.1 million U.S. households own a dog), followed by cats (46.5 million households) and freshwater fish (11.1 million households).
Millennials (28 - 43-year-olds) make up the largest percentage of current pet owners at 33%, followed by 25% of Gen X (44- 59-years-olds) and 24% of baby boomers (60 - 78-year-olds).
Pets are not limited to the canine and feline categories. Many people prefer the companionship of birds, reptiles, fish, rats or other animals.
Pets enrich our lives in so many ways, from providing companionship to helping reduce stress, so on this day, we show them that we appreciate them even more.
Pet owners often take this opportunity to pamper their pets with extra attention, treats, and playtime.
People share pictures of their pets on social media, organize special activities for their pets, or spend quality time bonding with them.
It's a reminder to cherish the joy and companionship pets bring into our lives and to ensure they feel loved and cared for every day.
It's also a great time to consider adopting a pet from a shelter or rescue organization if you don't already have an animal companion.
You can borrow one for a few hours, hang out at a dog park or Cat cafe, or volunteer at an animal shelter. There are many ways to enjoy the company of animals.
They really are quite remarkable if you let them be themselves and know they are loved.
I've had pets of many different species from dogs, cats, rats, hamsters, mice, fish, alligator, turtles, birds, horses, goats, sheep, pigs, ducks, chickens, and probably a few that I forgot. My family has always been animal lovers, so I was blessed with growing up getting to know them.
I must say that I appreciate them even more, in my life now, that I have the time to just be with them and not rush off to do something. I now rush home to see them, bask in the love, and enjoy their antics. I truly do love my pets (cats), Reggi and Sophia.
