Companions for Life
May is National Pet Month in the United States, a time to shower our beloved companions with extra love and appreciation. Our pets bring so much joy, laughter, and unconditional love into our lives, and this month is all about celebrating that special bond. Started by the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) in 2006, National Pet Month always has a theme. This year’s theme is “Companions for Life.” According to Red Bluff Daily News, the 2024 theme “aims to raise awareness of not only responsible pet ownership, but also to recognize the bond between humans and animals and the positive effects they have on our physical and mental health.” As a longtime member of NAPPS, I am proud to help promote National Pet Month: Companions for Life.
Why We Celebrate National Pet Month
Pets are more than just animals; they’re family members. Studies have shown that owning a pet can have numerous benefits for our physical and mental health. They can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and even encourage us to be more active.
National Pet Month is a chance to:
- Show our pets how much we care: Spoil them with a new toy, a yummy treat, or an extra-long walk
- Raise awareness about responsible pet ownership: This includes proper care, training, and ensuring your pet is microchipped and has identification tags
- Support animal shelters and rescue organizations: Many shelters hold adoption events during National Pet Month. Consider giving a loving home to a pet in need or making an item or monetary donation to a shelter or rescue
How To Celebrate National Pet Month
Here are a few ideas to make this National Pet Month extra special for your furry (or feathered or scaly) friend:
- Plan a pet-friendly outing: Take your dog for a hike, have a picnic in the park with your cat, or visit a pet-friendly store together
- Schedule a long walk while you’re at work: Count on us to take your dog or backpack cat out for an extra long walk this month. Schedule here and let us make your pets’ day!
- Get creative: Make a homemade pet toy, bake some delicious pet treats, or take some adorable pictures of your pet
- Share the love on social media: Use the hashtag #NationalPetMonth to share your pet photos and stories with the world
Celebrating Pets Every Day
While National Pet Month is a great time to focus on our pets, remember that showing them love and care is important all year round. Here are some key ways to be a responsible pet owner:
- Provide your pet with the best nutrition you can afford
- Take your pet to the veterinarian at least once per year for a wellness check and necessary vaccinations
- Give your pet plenty of exercise and enrichment – hire a dog walker or pet sitter if you need support!
- Train your pet using positive reinforcement techniques
- Take a holistic approach to your pet’s physical, mental, and emotional health
- Show your pet lots of patience, compassion, and love, even when they make mistakes
By committing to be our pet’s companions for life, we are committing to prioritizing their needs. During National Pet Month and throughout the year, taking care of our furry (or feathered or scaly) friends and promoting responsible pet ownership creates a happier and healthier world for humans and animals to enjoy.
At Buckhead Pet Pals, your pet’s wellbeing is our top priority. We encourage you to count on us to help you meet your pet’s needs. It takes a village and we’re proud to be part of yours! Get in touch with Buckhead Pet Pals today; we serve Buckhead, Brookhaven, Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, Chamblee, Midtown, and West Midtown Atlanta.
Existing clients, please request services here. New clients, learn more about our onboarding process and scheduling software/app here. We welcome your questions and comments via phone at 404-303-0312 or email at office@buckheadpetpals.com.