21 October is observed as National Pets for Veterans Day to raise awareness of the mental health benefits of providing pet care to veterans and emphasize the benefits of rescued animals in need of homes. Animals have experienced their own trauma. Sometimes it is found that these animals are not suitable for families with children or civilians who do not understand how to properly meet their needs. However, these same animals can often provide unconditional love and support to veterans in ways that other humans cannot match. Veterans benefit from this connection and support. The animals in the plan benefit from finding permanent homes and company with their new owners. This is why National Pets for Veterans Day was created.
National Pets for Veterans Day Celebration and Activities
Today also:
- National Reptile Day
- National Reptile Awareness Day
- National Apple Day
- International Day of the Nacho
Veterinary visit
Responsible pet ownership begins with regular visits to the veterinarian. Given their shorter lifespan than humans, your dog or cat should be checked at least once or twice a year. Depending on your pet’s vaccination schedule, they may be vaccinated more frequently when they are young, but establishing and maintaining good pet health means keeping up with veterinarian visits as they age.
Vaccination
Vaccinating your pet is a very essential part of responsible pet care. Shortly after welcoming your new pet into your home, schedule an immunization appointment. Talk to your veterinarian at your first visit to find out when to schedule a visit.
Sterilization/sterilization
Disinfecting pets can prevent many health problems, including complicated pregnancy, and reduce the number of homeless animals.
Healthy Food
Two relevant elements of responsible pet keeping include always providing animals with fresh, cool water and healthy food. The right pet food will enrich your best friend’s life and provide them with the energy and nutrition they need. In addition to healthy ingredients, choose a pet food formula suitable for your pet’s age, health and activity level, and consult your veterinarian before switching your pet to special food.
Home care
As a caregiver for your pets, your job is to provide them with good hygiene at home and at the veterinarian or beautician. Brushing their teeth, combing their coats, and providing them with healthy food will keep them in their best condition.
One of the most important aspects of responsible pet care is to ensure that your dog or cat is well-trained and proper social interaction is part of it. It is best and most effective to start when they are young, but it is never too late to learn new skills.
Interesting Facts about National Pets for Veterans Day
- In a 14,000-year-old German cemetery, dog remains were found next to human remains. Therefore, the dog is considered to be the first animal domesticated by humans.
- Although cats are often described as happily sipping milk from a plate, most cats are lactose intolerant and cannot digest any kind of dairy products.
- Cats meow to communicate with people. In fact, in infancy, cats rarely meow at each other.
- Dogs’ noses are wet because they are covered with mucus, which can help them absorb odors in the air. They also used tongue and mouth to sample smells.
- Despite being known as a short-lived pet, the oldest goldfish on record died 43 years after its owner won it at the fair.
- Just like humans, pet mice are ticklish. Studies have found that when being tickled, mice will giggle and laugh, even though the frequency is not audible to human ears.
- Cats sleep 70% of their lives and groom themselves 30% of the time when they are awake.
Some Quotes for Your Pets on National Pets for Veterans Day
- “There’s a saying. If you want someone to love you forever, buy a dog, feed it and keep it around.” Dick Dale, American Musician
- “A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than you love yourself.” Josh Billings, American Comedian
- “An animal’s eyes have the power to speak a great language.” Martin Buber, German Philosopher
- “My favorite type of pet has always been a dog. They’re loyal, kind and offer endless affection.” Brendon Urie, American Musician
- “Pets are humanizing. They remind us we have an obligation and responsibility to preserve and nurture and care for all life.” James Cromwell, American Actor
- “Animals are such agreeable friends—they ask no questions; they pass no criticisms.” George Eliot, British Author
