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National Kids and Pets Day

Make National Kids and Pets Day special for your family - bring home a furry friend, go on an adventure, or just snuggle up for some quality time!

Monday

April 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEApril 26

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAnimals

SUBCATEGORYPets

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

It's time to show your appreciation and love for the special bond between kids and pets on National Kids and Pets Day on April 26. This day was created to celebrate the unique relationship between children and their four-legged friends, as well as to promote responsible pet ownership. It's a great opportunity to spend quality time with your little ones and furry family members, doing fun activities together or just snuggling up for some cuddles. Whether you have a dog, cat, hamster, fish or any other pet – it's important to recognize the joy they bring into our lives!

TIMELINE

National Kids and Pets Day Timeline

Pets as Family Members

During the early 1900s, the concept of keeping pets as part of the family began to be widely accepted in Western households.

Animal-Assisted Therapy Emerges

The 1960s saw the dawn of animal-assisted therapy, where pets were used to aid in the emotional and cognitive development of children.

First Pet Rock

The pet rock became a quirky trend among kids in 1971, highlighting how the relationship between children and pets was intertwined with popular culture.

Pound Puppies Toy Line

The creation of the Pound Puppies toy line in 1983 showed a growing appreciation for the companionship of pets among children.

Pets in Children's Television

Television shows of the 1990s often featured pets, further promoting interactions between children and animals.

National Kids And Pets Day Created

In 2005, author and pet lifestyle expert Colleen Paige founded National Kids And Pets Day to celebrate the special bond between children and their pets.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Kids and Pets Day

Go for a walk

Take your kids and your pet out for a walk. This will give your kids a chance to get some exercise and your pet will love the fresh air.

PLAY

Play outside

Set up some outdoor games for your kids and their pet. Frisbee or tag are some good options that will get everyone moving.

VISIT

Visit a petting zoo

Take your kids to a petting zoo and let them interact with different animals. This is a great way to learn about animals and how to properly handle them.

MAKE

Make pet treats

Get creative in the kitchen and make some treats for your pet. It's an easy activity that both kids and pets can enjoy.

HAVE

Have a picnic

Pack up some snacks, sandwiches, and drinks, and have a picnic with your family and your pet. Enjoy the fresh air and each other's company.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Kids and Pets Day

Pets encourage physical activity

Children who interact with animals often tend to be more active than those who don't. Pet owners commonly make regular trips outside to walk their dogs or play fetch, while some may engage in activities like hiking or swimming with their four-legged companions. This helps promote physical activity which is essential for overall health.

Kids and pets help build bonding

Having a pet can teach children important life lessons such as responsibility, compassion, patience and respect. At the same time, children can provide unconditional love and affection to their furry family members. Having kids and pets in the home can be a great source of comfort and joy for everyone involved!

Pets promote health benefits for children

Research has shown that having a pet companion can have numerous health benefits for both adults and children - they result in less stress and anxiety, improved cardiovascular health, and even reduced allergies. These benefits are even higher in those who grew up with pets in their childhood home!

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