5 Ways to Celebrate National Pet Day

5 ways to celebrate national pet day - two dogs sitting in a kayak

National Pet Day is the perfect time to show our furry friends how much we love them. Whether you’ve had your pet for years or just welcomed them into your home, this day is a great opportunity to create special moments.


As someone who’s always looking for ways to make my pups feel extra loved, this holiday means even more to me—especially as my dog, Walter , gets older. When I first got him, he went everywhere with me. Life has gotten busier, but I still make sure to carve out one-on-one time by taking him along whenever I can. He doesn’t have a favorite treat (he loves them all), but what he enjoys most is cuddles and simply being with me.


With that in mind, here are five meaningful ways to celebrate National Pet Day and make it extra special for your furry friend.

1. Plan a Special Outing

One of the best National Pet Day celebration ideas is to include your pet in your day . If they love exploring, take them on a scenic walk, to a pet-friendly park, or even to a pet-friendly store or café. Walter used to come with me everywhere, and I love bringing him along whenever I can—it’s such a simple way to make his day.

If your pet prefers a more relaxed day, consider a cozy stay-at-home celebration with extra belly rubs, a long brushing session, or just some quality time together.

two dogs sitting in a kayak
Walter & Topher enjoying a kayak ride

2. Treat Them to Something Special

Every pet has their favorite indulgence, whether it’s a pup cup, a homemade treat, or a new toy. For my dogs, lick mats, homemade pup-safe cakes, and Starbucks pup cups are go-to treats that make any day extra special!


Veterinary student Paige makes sure to prioritize her Labrador, Cody, even with her busy schedule:

“On days I know will be really long, I sometimes set my alarm 5–10 minutes earlier to allow for extra cuddles in bed before starting my morning. And after exams, when I’ve spent the entire weekend studying, I like to take my buddy out for a post-exam pup cup—studying is hard on everyone!”

Paige

Veterinary student wearing scrubs, hugging yellow lab thats giving her kisses
Paige Hutton and her dog

Looking for a fun gift for your pet? We just added sassy and stylish pet bandanas to our shop—perfect for making your pet look extra cute on National Pet Day! Plus, our breed-specific stickers are a great way to show off your love for your furry friend. Check them out here.

3. Teach Your Pet a New Trick

A fun way to celebrate National Pet Day while also strengthening your bond with your pet is through training sessions ! Training provides great mental stimulation for pets, and it doesn’t have to be complicated.

Catherine, one of our amazing ambassadors, shares her experience:

“Have you ever tried training with your dog? Training sessions are a great way to provide mental stimulation for your pet and can strengthen your bond. I use clicker training with my dog, using rewards to teach her new skills (sit, stay, place) and reinforce behaviors I like (eye contact, choosing not to chase the cat). This technique is easy to learn for beginners—give it a try with your dog this National Pet Day!"

Even a few minutes a day can make a big difference in your pet’s mental and emotional well-being!

4. Throw a Pet Party

Celebrating National Pet Day with a pet-friendly party is a fun way to make the day extra special! Whether it’s just you and your pet or a gathering of pet-loving friends, a little extra excitement can go a long way.


One of my favorite memories was Ruth’s first birthday with us . We had just adopted her after she had been surrendered to a shelter with untreated hookworms, which led to IBD . She had already been through so much, so we wanted to make her feel extra special.

3 dogs and 1 cat wearing party hats getting ready to celebrate

We got party hats for all of our pets (three dogs and a cat at the time) and, of course, treats for everyone! It was the perfect way to welcome her into our home and celebrate her new life.


Need more pet party ideas? This article on How to Celebrate National Pet Day has great inspiration for making the day even more memorable.

5. Give Them Some Extra Cuddles & Quality Time

Sometimes, the best way to celebrate is just by being present. Veterinary student, Emily, shares how she makes the most of even the busiest days:

“Vet school means a LOT of late-night studying, but I love taking advantage of that time to be with my little love! She’s such a ham and is always soooo happy when I’m home and giving her a bit of attention while working on my computer. We are equally obsessed with each other!”

Cat looking at camera blocking computer and ipad
Whether it’s a lazy day on the couch, a quiet grooming session, or just sitting outside together, small moments of connection can be the most meaningful.

BONUS. Spoil Them with Something Fun & Unique

Pets have their own personalities, and National Pet Day is the perfect time to let them show off their style! Whether your pet loves dressing up or you just want a fun way to celebrate, our sassy pet bandanas and breed-specific stickers make adorable gifts.


🐶 Explore our pet-themed designs and find the perfect gift for your furry friend! Shop Now.


📸 We’d also love to see how you and your pet celebrate—share your photos with us using Love Huvet products!

cat wearing a hair scrunchie around their neck

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, National Pet Day is about cherishing the bond we share with our pets . Whether they’ve been by your side for years or are just starting their journey with you, every moment counts. Walter’s getting older, and that makes every cuddle, every adventure, and every treat feel a little more special.


So, how are you celebrating National Pet Day this year? However you choose to honor your pet, make sure they feel as loved as they make you feel every day. 💕


👉 Looking for the perfect gift for your pet or a pet-loving friend? Browse our collection here and celebrate in style!


📖 For even more ideas, check out this article on National Pet Day celebrations .

Woman holding up her dog surrounded by packages

Emily Ahsan

Emily is the founder of Love Huvet, a brand dedicated to celebrating and supporting veterinary professionals and pet lovers through fun, creative, and meaningful products. A passionate animal advocate and pet parent, Emily loves spoiling her dogs—especially on National Pet Day! When she’s not running her business, she enjoys creating engaging content, homeschooling her little ones, and making life more joyful for pets and their humans.

📲 Follow along for more pet-inspired content and products at Love Huvet! 


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