BLOGGING THE VIEW: Proud pet parents celebrate paws and purrs this National Pet Day

If you haven’t already given your favourite furry friend a belly rub, cuddle, or tasty treat today, you absolutely must – because today (11 April) we’re celebrating National Pet Day!

And if you’ve been on the fence about getting a family pet, take this as a sign that today is the day.

What is National Pet Day?

This is a day to appreciate all the unconditional love, joy and companionship our pets bring into our lives. Whether you’re Team Dog, Team Cat (or even Team Parrot or Guinea Pig!), today is about recognising just how much pets enrich our daily routines and our mental well-being.

The importance of pets

There’s nothing quite like coming home after a long, difficult day only to be greeted by a full-body-tail-wagging or a gentle purring to make everything right in the world again. There are many reasons we love our pets – and why they’re so beneficial to us:

· That feeling of seeing your pet after a long day at work is stress relief, which is important for lowering anxiety and blood pressure

· They are loyal companions who ensure you never suffer from loneliness, no matter what stage of life you’re in.

· Dogs, in particular, encourage you to get outdoors and be active, whether walking them or throwing a ball, keeping you both healthy

· Pets provide emotional support, with many people relying on emotional support animals after trauma

· Exposure to animals is known to boost your immune system – a really important benefit for younger children

· Bigger dogs provide ample security for family homes

Why you should adopt, not shop

Right now, there are thousands of loving pets in animal shelters just waiting for a home. Whether they ended up there because they were born on the streets, or surrendered by families who are relocating, struggling financially, or through neglect, they are not in a shelter through any fault of their own.

When you adopt a pet, you’re contributing to animal care in a number of ways:

· You’re giving an animal a second chance. Consider how scared and confused a shelter pet must be after living in a warm family home, only to be abandoned in a shelter. Likewise, think of the joy you could give an animal that has never known such love!

· By adopting pets, you’re breaking the cycle of overbreeding and pet homelessness

· Adopted pets are often less prone to breeding challenges of ‘pedigree pets’ and are always so grateful for the love

There are many reputable animal shelters and rescue organisations across South Africa working tirelessly to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome animals in need. And, believe it or not, you can find all sorts of animals in shelters—not just mixed-breed dogs and cats, but also purebreds, bunnies, birds, and more!

Not ready to adopt? You can still help!

If you’re not quite in a position to adopt, that’s okay, there are still so many ways you can make a difference this National Pet Day:

· Foster: Temporarily caring for an animal gives them a safe space while they wait for their forever home
· Donate: Whether it’s food, blankets, toys, or a small cash contribution, shelters are always in need
· Volunteer: Lend a hand at your local shelter—walk a dog, clean a kennel, or help out at events
· Share: Use social media to share adoptable pets and hopefully reach the right person

Celebrate with your pet today!

Whether it’s an extra-long cuddle, a walk in the park, or a homemade treat (there are many pet-friendly recipes online!), show your pets some extra love this National Pet Day.

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