National Pet Month

National Pet Month is a celebration of pets and the benefits they bring to people's lives and the benefits people bring to their lives. This holiday is celebrated on May 20th in the Unites States and during April in the UK.

The purpose of national pet month is:

1) Promote the benefits of pet ownership
2) Encourage pet adoption
3) Raise awareness of the benefits of people for pets and vice versa
4) Increase public awareness of services available from professionals who work with animals
5) To strengthen understanding of the role, value, and contribution to society of working companion animals (pets)

This month is about appreciating your pets whether it's a dog, cat, hamster, bird, fish, or anything else. It is also a month to help encourage people and yourself to adopt animals, and to just gain more knowledge about pets.

Here are some fun facts about pet ownership

• An estimated 1 million dogs in the United States have been named the primary beneficiary in their owner's will.
  
• At the end of the Beatles' song "A Day in the Life", an ultrasonic whistle, audible only to dogs, was recorded by Paul McCartney for his Shetland sheepdog. 
  

57%	of households include either a dog or a cat
90%	of pet owners say they consider their pet a member of the family
27%	have taken their dog or cat to a professional photographer
33%	of pet owners have a picture of their dog or cat displayed in their home
15%	bought a car or home with their pet in mind
50%	of dog and cat owners give their pets Christmas presents
36%	buy birthday presents for their pets
48%	of cat owners swear Fluffy watches TV
50%	of pet owners talk to their dog or cat
80%	think their pets can sense their moods
58%	of pet owners bury their furry friends on their property when they die

"Bisty" - Natalie's cat rescued from the streets!

"Tony"-Amanda's cat 

"Oreo" Amanda's dog

"Mittens"-Amanda's crazy kitten rescued from a kibbutz