National Pet Wellness Month is dedicated to our four-legged friends! Animals have long been full members of the family, so people are responsible for their well-being. A healthy lifestyle, regular visits to the vet, and following care recommendations are key to giving your pet a long and happy life.
History
The mid-1900s was a turning point for animals. They were no longer considered solely as workers, but were taken into homes, cared for, and raised. This change in perspective contributed to the development of veterinary medicine – in America, more doctors and clinics began providing disease prevention, treatment, and examinations.
In 2002, the PetFit program was launched, which was the first program to focus on pet health. The concept was implemented by Purdue University, with support from the National Research Council of the National Academies. The team presented an eight-day campaign that included consultations, examinations, training techniques, and instructions on proper nutrition.
For example, the most common problem in dogs is obesity. Due to improper nutrition, the animal can gain a critical amount of weight, which will worsen its overall health. Pets that participated in PetFit gained back normal body weight and kept it a year after the program began!
Fun facts
7 things that will cheer you up:
- Male puppies often let their opponent win when playing with a female, even if they have a physical advantage.
- Cats have a breed similar to the Welsh Corgi – the Munchkin.
- Dog nose prints are individual, just like human fingerprints.
- Cats touch a person’s forehead to show their trust.
- Guinea pigs see the world in color.
- Parrots have monocular vision, meaning they see with each eye separately.
- 95% of owners talk to their pets.
How to take part
National Pet Wellness Month was created to remind people of their responsibility to those they have tamed. Take your pets for check-ups, buy them a new toy or treat, learn more about parenting at workshops and lectures, volunteer and help out at animal shelters. Make a new friend and give them your love!
When is National Pet Wellness Month in 2023?
National Pet Wellness Month is observed on October 1 each year.
Observations
| Weekday | Month | Day | Year |
| Sunday | October | 1 | 2023 |
| Tuesday | October | 1 | 2024 |
| Wednesday | October | 1 | 2025 |
| Thursday | October | 1 | 2026 |
