We cherish our pets year-round, and February, the month of love, creates plenty of special occasions to show appreciation to our furry friends. From dashing dogs and clever cats to bashful bunnies and cheeky chinchillas, pets keep our lives interesting and full of unconditional love. Here are February’s best holidays to bond with your pets even more.
Feb. 3: National Golden Retriever Day
Sunshine coats and low-hanging tongues– America’s mascot pet has earned its own holiday on February 3 with National Golden Retriever Day. Originating from Scotland in the 19th century, Golden Retrievers are a sporting breed bred for hunting and retrieving game on land and in water. Today, Goldens still maintain their athletic demeanor, but are happiest with a game of fetch with their favorite humans. Despite their large size and eager personalities, Golden Retrievers make great friends with other dogs, big and small. So, if you see a smiling, yellow ball of energy on your daily dog walk, don’t hesitate to say hello with a head scratch and a few friendly moments of sniffing.
Feb. 3: Doggy Date Night
A cuddly night in on a chilly February evening is the perfect excuse to celebrate Doggy Date Night, also on February 3. Pick up your furry sidekick’s favorite treats and gift them a spa day at the groomer to keep them date-ready on this day of bonding. Hours spent apart are challenging for owners and pets, and Doggy Date Night is another way to spend more quality time with our best friends.
Feb. 14: Pet Theft Awareness Day
Did you know Valentine’s Day has an increased number of pet thefts? Created by Last Chance for Animals in 1988, Pet Theft Awareness Day highlights the importance of getting our pets microchipped with proper identification tags to keep them safe and out of the hands of pet thieves. Owners can do their part by securing gates and doors, keeping contact information up-to-date, and leashing pets in public places. If you happen to run into a lost pet, take them to your local veterinarian immediately. As a responsible pet owner, it is your duty to keep your pets loved and protected.
Feb. 19: International Tug of War Day
It’s no secret that tug of war is a pooch favorite, and International Tug of War Day is one of the many ways we can give our dogs (and some cats!) ample exercise. Many wonder if tug of war is safe for dogs to play, and the answer is yes– when played correctly, the game is a great source of exercise with the necessary bonus of mental stimulation. Remember to add in commands, praises, and a few treats during the game to remind your dog that sharing is caring when it comes to toys.
Feb. 20: National Love Your Pet Day
Having a pet improves our mood, eliminates stress and anxiety, and helps keep us healthy and energized, which is why National Love Your Pet Day is a reminder to always pamper our pets with affection and care. The best way to show love to our pets is by making sure they are physically fit, active, and socialized, with scheduled veterinarian check-ups, adequate groomings, a proper diet, and a clean living space with lots of cuddles in between.
Feb. 22: National Walk Your Dog Day
Your dog racing to the front door as soon as it opens is why National Walk Your Dog Day is a holiday– the highlights of a dog’s day are the brisk walks they await. Daily dog walks exercise our dogs (preventing obesity and other health issues), stimulate their senses, familiarize their surroundings, and provide opportunities for socialization with other animals and humans. Like us humans, walking your dog releases endorphins, and they’ll be more than happy to return to their beds calm and at peace.
Feb. 23: International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day
Perhaps International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day would be a dog’s favorite holiday, as we all know our canine companions rarely turn down a treat! Rewarding our dogs with natural, daily dog treats is vital for their dental and digestive health, as they can remove plaque, provide necessary nutrients, and improve their immune system. Most importantly, a dog biscuit a day keeps your dog’s breath at bay.
Feb. 28: World Spay Day
The most significant February pet holiday of them all, World Spay Day, celebrated on the last Tuesday of the month, aims to encourage all pet owners to get their pets spayed or neutered to not only keep them healthy by eliminating potential health issues but also prevent the overcrowding of animal shelters and overpopulation of stray animals on the streets. It is best to sterilize your dogs and cats before they enter their first heat, but with the approval of a vet, the procedure can be done well into adulthood. The best way to celebrate World Spay Day is by reminding future pet owners to adopt, not shop, to combat unethical backyard breeders and puppy mills.
Have a question about pet health? Want to become the best possible pet parent? Find helpful tips, reminders, and insight to giving your furry friend the best possible care with For Pet's Sake! Learn more at drdevonsmith.com.