April 24, 2022 was National Pet Parents Day! This day, which is honored annually on the last Sunday in April, is centered around the idea that pets are family. Pet owners from all across the globe can agree that having an animal companion feels much closer to ‘love’ than ‘ownership.’ Hence, the term pet parent has become a popular title that its occupants are proud to bestow, and the reason for Pet Parents Day.
We love being pet parents and we know our community members do, too – so we asked some of you to share your favorite aspects of pet parenting! See what our enthusiastic NYP pet parents had to say:
Jennifer Arceneaux wrote…
“Knowing that I’m able to be there for them.”
Kim Buyl described…
“So much love you may receive”
Roberta Nelson exclaimed…
“The delight of their company!”
Danielle Beal revealed…
“Their love and playfulness”
To show just how incredibly impactful our pets can be in our lives, we also asked our community members to describe their pets in three words. Read their sweet and silly responses below:
Floyd Francis Rocha shared...
“My best buddy”
Daleen Robinson expressed...
“My best friend”
Kathy Kennady said...
“My soulmate…”
Lilianne Daou commented...
“my oreo cookie”
Kim Buyl replied...
“Loving, lovable, loved.”
Bernice Grant professed...
“Life saving friend”
Maria Mckenzie conveyed...
“My whole world”
Nikki Turner stated...
“Sweet and Cuddly.”
RobynneLeslee Thomas added...
“Big, Hairy, Love-ball!”
Mary Campagnolo noted...
“Bold, bossy, beautiful!”
Susan Albertsen answered...
“Loved, Loving, Handsome”
Evelyn Bell summarized...
“Sweet, cuddly, handsome”
Moshmi Singh reflected...
“My baby”
Judy Wareham hinted...
“A sweety pie”
Org En Elsa Pieterse shared...
“The absolute best!”
Jill Thurston praised...
“NOW AN ANGEL....”
Su Miao Hong proclaimed...
“So cute”
Chris Toogood confirmed...
“He’s my partner”
Cheryl Ann Hightower
“Beautiful, kind, loving”
Colleen Smith revealed...
“She's very smart!!”
Jeannette Ward reflected...
“Mollies shy
Blue is funny and Cheyenne is very lovable”
Violet van Jaarsveld declared...
“Adorable!!”
What is YOUR favorite part of being a pet parent? How would you describe your own pet in three words? It’s never too late to celebrate Pet Parents Day – let us know in the comments!
*(photos included in this article are for illustrative purposes & the rights to these images are reserved to their respective owners)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is National Pet Parents Day?
A: National Pet Parents Day is an annual celebration honoring the special bond between pets and the people who care for them. It takes place on the last Sunday of April each year and recognizes that pet owners see themselves as true "parents" to their animal companions rather than simply owners.
Q2: When is National Pet Parents Day celebrated?
A: National Pet Parents Day is celebrated annually on the last Sunday in April. For example, in 2022 it fell on April 24. It's a day dedicated to appreciating the love, care, and commitment that pet parents give to their furry, feathered, or scaly family members.
Q3: Why do people use the term "pet parent" instead of "pet owner"?
A: The term "pet parent" has grown in popularity because it better reflects the deep emotional bond many people feel with their animals. For most pet lovers, caring for a pet feels much closer to love and family than mere ownership, making "pet parent" a more fitting and heartfelt title.
Q4: How can I celebrate National Pet Parents Day?
A: You can celebrate by spending extra quality time with your pet — go for a special walk, prepare a pet-friendly treat, buy them a new toy, or simply cuddle up together. It's also a great day to share photos of your pet on social media and connect with other pet parents in your community.
Q5: What are some of the best things about being a pet parent?
A: Pet parents often describe the joy of being there for their animals, the unconditional love they receive, the delight of their pet's company, and the playfulness and fun that pets bring to everyday life. Pets have an incredible ability to bring happiness and comfort to their human families.
Q6: How do pets impact the lives of their owners?
A: Pets have a profoundly positive impact on their owners' lives. They provide companionship, reduce stress and loneliness, encourage physical activity, and offer unconditional love. Many pet parents describe their animals as best friends, sources of comfort, and irreplaceable members of the family.
Q7: Is National Pet Parents Day only for dog and cat owners?
A: No — National Pet Parents Day is for all pet parents, regardless of the type of animal they care for. Whether you have dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, fish, reptiles, or any other animal companion, this day is a celebration of the unique and loving bond between humans and their pets.
