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Remember Me Thursday

Shine a light on pet adoption this Remember Me Thursday - because every furry friend deserves a loving home!

Thursday

September 2026

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

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YEARLY DATEFourth Thursday in September

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYAnimal Welfare

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Light up your heart and home on Remember Me Thursday, celebrated on the fourth Thursday in September! Created in 2013 by the Helen Woodward Animal Center, this day is a sparkling opportunity to illuminate the importance of pet adoption. Embraced by over 180 countries and countless animal lovers, Remember Me Thursday has significantly contributed to reducing the number of pets in shelters by promoting adoption. On this heartwarming day, people around the world unite to radiate love and compassion for our furry companions, shedding a hopeful light on the ones that still need a loving home. So, let's gear up to show the world that every pet deserves a forever home! Shine a light on pet adoption this Remember Me Thursday because every furry friend deserves a loving home!

TIMELINE

Remember Me Thursday Timeline

Creation of Remember Me Thursday

The Helen Woodward Animal Center creates the first Remember Me Thursday to promote the adoption of shelter pets.

Global Participation

In its second year, Remember Me Thursday is recognized in over 180 countries, shining an international light on pet adoption.

Celebrity Involvement

Celebrities, including Ellen DeGeneres and Katherine Heigl, show their support by sharing their own adopted pet stories on social media.

#RememberTheRescue Challenge

The Helen Woodward Animal Center launches the #RememberTheRescue Challenge, encouraging pet lovers worldwide to share about their own adopted pets and promote animal adoption.

Celebrating Five Years

Remember Me Thursday celebrates its 5th anniversary. The event continues to grow, engaging millions through campaigns, education, and social media.

Virtual Candle Lighting

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, worldwide participants light virtual candles to honor pets waiting in shelters for adoption, bringing awareness in a new, digital way.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Remember Me Thursday

Share your adoption story

Use your social media platforms to share the story of how you brought your own adopted pet home. Not only will this celebrate your pet and the joy they bring, it might inspire others to consider adopting their next pet.

HOST

Host an adoption awareness event

Remember Me Thursday can be an ideal occasion to host a pet adoption awareness event, either virtually or in person. Gather local shelter representatives, veterinarians, and pet owners to inspire attendees about pet adoption.

PARTICIPATE

Participate in a candle-lighting ceremony

The main event of Remember Me Thursday is the worldwide synchronized candle-lighting. Participate by lighting a candle and sharing a picture on social media with the hashtag #RememberMeThursday.

DONATE

Donate to your local shelter

Celebrate Remember Me Thursday by making a donation of money or supplies to your local animal shelter. This simple act of kindness can make a big difference for animals waiting for their forever home.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a local shelter

It's a great day to commit your time or start volunteering at an animal shelter, pound, or rescue center. Your help could directly impact the lives of animals, making them feel loved and cared for while they wait for their forever homes.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Remember Me Thursday is Important

Promotes Compassion and Kindness

By promoting pet adoption, Remember Me Thursday encourages compassion, empathy, and kindness. Through volunteering, donating, and asserting the need for adoptive homes, people are given the opportunity to make a loving and caring impact directly on the lives of animals in need.

Spreads Awareness

Remember Me Thursday puts the spotlight on the importance of pet adoption. It helps to spread the word and raise awareness about the millions of adoptable pets who are waiting in shelters for a chance to find their forever homes. The more attention we can bring to these animals, the higher the chances they have of being adopted.

Inspires Others

Not only does Remember Me Thursday raise awareness, but it also inspires people to consider adopting their own pets. Stories of successful adoptions can touch hearts and motivate others to give a rescue pet the loving home they deserve.