October feels like the start of the holiday season. The cool weather reminds us that fall is here. It’s not quite Autumn, the start of the seasonal change from summer to winter. October is also a great month for celebrating family pets and animals everywhere!
Monthly Celebrations
Adopt-a-Shelter Dog Month. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) wants to reduce the strain on animals shelters around the country. Adopting shelter or at-risk animals can help these organizations continue their good work for homeless animals.
National Animal Safety and Protection Month. We all want our pets to be safe. Pet safety tips include your pet first aid kit at home and in the car (doggy safety harness, cat carrier), pet proofing your home (remove toxic plants, low-hanging electrical cords), and regular veterinary check ups (vaccinations, weight check).
National Pet Wellness Month. Pet Wellness Month is a reminder to get your pet micro chipped, and know your pet’s baseline behaviors (eating habits, nutrition for aging pets).
National Pit Bull Awareness Month. Some people still believe the myths that American Staffordshire Terriers and Staffordshire Bull Terriers are mean and vicious. Like any breed, Staffies are one of the best dog breeds. But they aren’t for everyone. In my experience, I never met a Staffy I didn’t like!
Weekly Celebrations
Animal Welfare Week. (First full week of October) The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the International Veterinary Students’ Association (IVSA) celebrate the week “to raise awareness of all kinds of animal welfare issues.”
October 13 through 19: National Veterinary Technician Week. The National Association of Veterinary Technicians of America (NAVTA). We should celebrate the good work of people who manage the health and care of our pets.
Daily Celebrations
October 4: World Animal Day. October 4 is the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment. World Animal Day celebrates the message of mercy toward all creatures great and small for animal lovers worldwide.
October 9: National Pet Obesity Awareness Day. Pet parents love their pets too much! Over 50% of cats in the United States are overweight! And 60% of dogs are overweight. Obesity is an ongoing problem: 27% to 39% of cats and 20% of dogs are considered obese. Be kind to your pet: Break the pattern of free feeding. Instead, start a regular feeding schedule.
October 16: Global Cat Day. Join the global community of cat people “to stand up for policies that protect all cats in their communities.” You can sign a pledge to support advocacy efforts for all cats (domestic and feral).
October 28: Plush Animal Lovers Day. Laugh if you want – this is a real day to give some love and attention to your favorite plush toys. My real-world office has a terrific trio of plush toys named Scully, JJ and Tucker. People stop by for a plush toy pet or conversation.
Design a DIY toy for your pet. Or donate plush toys to cats and dogs at your local rescue or shelter.
Thanks for reading! 😎
Dr. Pet Mom
“A pet is never truly forgotten until it is no longer remembered.”
–Lacie Petitto