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National Love Your Pet Day

On National Love Your Pet Day, give your furry friend some extra love and treats to show them how much they mean to you! 🐾❤️

Saturday

February 2027

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

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YEARLY DATEFebruary 20

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAnimals

SUBCATEGORYPets

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to pamper and shower your furry, scaly, or feathery friends with love on National Love Your Pet Day on February 17! This special day was created to celebrate the bond between humans and their beloved pets. The first recorded celebration of this holiday was in 2009, when it was founded by animal welfare advocate Colleen Paige. Whether you have a loyal dog, a cuddly cat, or an adventurous hamster, this is the perfect time to show them just how much they mean to you. So mark your calendars and get ready for a day filled with love and appreciation for our adorable companions!

TIMELINE

National Love Your Pet Day Timeline

Founding of ASPCA

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) was founded, marking one of the first major steps in promoting animal welfare in the U.S.

Founding of American Humane Society

The American Humane Society, dedicated to ensuring the welfare, adoption, and protection of animals, was founded.

First National Pet Week

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) initiates the first National Pet Week in the U.S. to celebrate the pets and their contribution in human lives.

Launch of "Animals" Magazine

The Animals magazine was first published spreading knowledge and igniting love for pets across America.

First National Love Your Pet Day

Animal welfare advocate Colleen Paige initiates the first celebration of National Love Your Pet Day encouraging pet owners to show extra love and care towards their pets.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

How to Celebrate National Love Your Pet Day

Take your pet on an adventure

Explore a new park or hiking trail with your pet. Not only will you both get some exercise and fresh air, but your pet will also love the opportunity to sniff around and discover new scents.

Create a pet spa day

Treat your pet to a day of pampering by giving them a bath, brushing their fur, and maybe even painting their nails! This will not only make your pet feel special, but it will also give you some quality bonding time.

Have a pet-themed movie marathon

Gather some snacks and snuggle up with your furry friend to watch all your favorite movies that feature pets. Some suggestions include "Homeward Bound", "Marley & Me", and "Secret Life of Pets".

Make homemade pet treats

Search for some easy and healthy recipes for homemade pet treats and spend the day baking with your pet. Not only will you both have fun, but your pet will also appreciate the delicious treats you made just for them.

Donate to a local animal shelter

Spread the love to other pets in need by donating food, toys, or money to a local animal shelter. You can even volunteer your time to help out and give some extra love to the animals there.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Love Your Pet Day

It's a chance to promote pet adoption and rescue organizations

On National Love Your Pet Day, we can also take the time to recognize and support pet adoption and rescue organizations. These groups work tirelessly to save animals in need and find them loving forever homes. By promoting their efforts, we can help give more pets a chance to experience love and happiness.

It's a day to show your pets how much you appreciate them

National Love Your Pet Day is the perfect reminder to pause and give some extra love and attention to your furry, feathered, or scaly friend. Take the time to pet them, play with them, or even treat them to their favorite activity - they'll certainly feel spoiled!

Pets bring so much joy and companionship into our lives

Our pets are always there for us, no matter what. They offer unconditional love, a listening ear (or wagging tail), and they never fail to put a smile on our faces. National Love Your Pet Day is the perfect opportunity to thank them for all of the happiness and comfort they bring into our lives.