Happy National Pet Week 2023!

by Ali Oaks | May 8, 2023

It’s National Pet Week!

When is National Pet Week 2023? May 7th - 13th!

Observed the first full week of May each year, National Pet Week celebrates the pets that enrich our lives, and encourages responsible pet care every day of the year. This national celebration was created by the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) and the Auxiliary to the AVMA in 1981.

During National Pet Week, pet owners are encouraged to take the time to appreciate the bond they share with their pets and take steps to ensure their pets' health and happiness. 

Let’s celebrate the important role that pets play in our lives!


Celebrating National Pet Week!

In honor of this special week, we took this past month to invite pet owners who have used GlobalVetLink for their pet's health certificates to submit a picture of their pet and tell us what it meant to have their furry friend accompany them on their travels. 

Check out some of our favorite submissions!


Meet Rana! Rana is a rescue. She relocated for a few months from Utah to Hawaii, and she loved it! Her owners were glad to have her along to explore beautiful Hawaii.

Meet three lucky cats who are on an Argentinian adventure...their owners share, "We're moving onto a 44ft. catamaran that we're picking up in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and sailing back to the States, so, of course, we had to bring the three cats with us. They got a much-needed reprieve from their carriers in the airport during the 27 hours of travel. Two of them use the suitcase as a bed here in the apartment, clearly ready to continue their travels! The one item we're still trying to determine is what the water bowl will be for them on the boat..."

Meet Thunder! His owner shares, "Thunder is like my son. I couldn’t imagine going on a trip without him. That being said, It’s meant the world to be able to have him alongside me for every adventure! Many more memories to come thanks to GlobalVetLink health certificates!"

Meet Kaya! His owner shares, "It was so surreal to bring Kaya back to my home on Kauai. It was amazing to see how happy she was running free and chasing chickens. I’ve never seen her smile so big. My heart exploded with joy!"

Meet Xolo-Chi! His owners share a photo from his adventures and tell us, "Xolo-Chi living his best life and making memories with us. His Dad and I are lucky his size allows us to travel with him. Moe has lived in Shanghai for 6 months, has been to Mexico twice, and goes on any boating and hiking adventures that are safe enough for him. Moe is 14yrs old this May, and we are hoping for more adventures to come!"

Keep up with his adventures on @xolochi.adventures on Instagram.

Greetings from Mexico! These pet owners share..."Being able to take my best friend with me on my lengthy Mexico vacation meant everything to me. I couldn't stand leaving her behind, knowing she loves the beach just as much as I do!"

Meet Chico! His owner shares, "He took his first 36-hour road trip from Graham, NC, to Michoacán, Mexico! He’s always loved being on the road!"


National Pet Week Activities: Ways You Can Celebrate This Week!

  1. Take your pet on a new adventure!
    • Animals of all kinds love new experiences that keep their minds stimulated. This National Pet Week, show some love for your pets by taking them on a new adventure. They’ll enjoy spending quality time with you while also trying something new. (They’re sure to sleep soundly afterward, too!) Here are some ideas:
      • Pet-friendly attractions: Look for pet-friendly attractions in your area, such as dog parks, dog bars, pet-friendly restaurants or pet-friendly museums.
      • Beach day: Many beaches are pet-friendly, so take your dog or cat to the beach for a day of fun in the sun!
      • Hiking and/or camping: Take your dog on a hiking and camping adventure in a national park or a forest. This is a great way to bond with your pet while enjoying fresh air and the beauty of nature!
  2. Get your next vet appointment scheduled!
    • Preventative veterinary care is crucial to ensuring your pet's health and longevity. One of the best gifts you can give your pet (and yourself) is a long, healthy life! Call your veterinarian to schedule your appointment for a wellness checkup or their yearly vaccinations, and ensure that your beloved pet is healthy and happy.
  3. Treat your pet to a spa day!
    • Grooming your pets not only helps them look good, but it helps them feel good too! Grooming is a proven technique for helping your pet relax and bonding with them. Nothing says "I love you” quite like soothing your pet and treating them to a relaxing day of pampering that leaves their coat clean and glistening.
      • Try an at-home spa day with a warm bath, warm towels and treats; or bring them somewhere like PetSmart where you can pay a small price to rent a bath and give them a DIY grooming and bonding session!

Citations:

National Pet Week. American Veterinary Medical Association. (n.d.). Retrieved April 18, 2023, from
https://www.avma.org/events/national-pet-week#:~:text=Celebrate%20National%20Pet%20Week%
C2%AE%20May%207%2D13%2C%202023&text=Created%20by%20the%20AVMA%20and,week%20of%20May%20each%20year.