National Pet Week is one of our favorite times of the year, after all, who doesn't love an excuse to shower their animal companion with a ton of extra love? Beginning the first full week of May, this seven-day event celebrates the bond between pet and human while promoting responsible pet ownership.
Each day focuses on a particular theme, so whether you're wanting information to promote good behavior or exercise and nutrition tips, you'll find plenty of advice and free resources up for grabs. With summer just around the corner, the event features a specific day focused on traveling with pets.
While everyone loves their pets, we're not all aware of the many things they need to live a long and happy life. With that in mind, National Pet Week is a wonderful opportunity to upskill and spend some quality time with your treasured friend. Here's everything you need to know about this annual event...
When is National Pet Week?
National Pet Week is an annual celebration that takes place during the first full week in May. In 2025, National Pet Week will begin on Sunday, May 4, and conclude on Saturday, May 10.
Who started National Pet Week?
National Pet Week was founded by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AMVA) back in 1981. Each day of the week long celebrations focuses on a different theme that helps to foster responsible pet ownership.
What is National Pet Week?
National Pet Week celebrates the bond we share with our animal companions. Focused on encouraging pet parents to provide their pet with everything they need to live a happy and healthy life, National Pet Week covers topics such as nutrition, exercise, travel, health issues and how to plan for your pet's care.
One of the core topics that National Pet Week focuses on is this idea of making a commitment for life. This means choosing a pet that fits your lifestyle and having an understanding of each pets unique needs.
From there, National Pet Week will go on to include a variety of fun and informative events that will equip you with the knowledge you need to keep your pet fit and thriving well into their senior years.
You'll find plenty of information about National Pet Week on the AVMA website, alongside lots of free resources, so be sure to check it out and take advantage of their expertise.
How to celebrate National Pet Week
Wondering how you can celebrate National Pet Week? Get inspired with some of our favorite ideas:
1. Share stories about your pet
Why not share your favorite stories and/or photos of your pet on social media? Not only do most of us love looking a cute animal snaps, but if you use #NationalPetWeek, it can be a great way to spread the word about this important event.
2. Make sure your pet's physical care is up-do-date
Whether your young canine companion is in need of their puppy shots, your feline friend is due their cat vaccinations or your bird or pocket pet hasn't had a physical checkover in a while, National Pet Week is a great reminder to check in with your vet.
3. Volunteer at a shelter
Have you ever volunteered at a shelter before? If not and you're someone who loves being around animals, this can be a great way to celebrate National Pet Week. Plus, there are few things that warm the heart more or lift our spirits than being around animals. Shelters are always in need of a spare pair of hands, so don't be afraid to reach out.
4. Consider adoption
As long as you feel ready to be a pet parent, there are so many wonderful reasons to adopt a dog or to adopt a cat or other animal. Not only are you saving a life and reducing overpopulation, but your new friend will provide you with so much love and companionship.
5. Spend quality time with your pet
If you're looking for an excuse to spend more time with your pet, National Pet Week is definitely it! For those of you who have a canine companion in your life, why not check out these great ways to build more fun into your dog's routine.
If you have a feline friend in your life, carving out time to play with the best interactive cat toys is a great way to bond. And if you have a bird, fish or pocket pet, adding some mental and physical enrichment into their cage will certainly earn you some brownie points.
You might also want to learn about International Dog Day, International Cat Day, or International Rabbit Day.
Edited by Megan Milstead.
Recent updates
This page was last updated in April 2025 by Kathryn Williams.
