National Pet Memorial Day

Sweet image of a person holding a framed photo of their beloved pet, surrounded by flowers and gentle sunlight.. — National pet memorial day illustration

Welcome to WhatNationalDayIsIt.com, your go-to source for all things national day-related! Today, we're diving into the heartwarming and bittersweet world of National Pet Memorial Day. So grab a tissue and prepare for a journey through the internet history of honoring our beloved furry friends.

When is Pet Memorial Day?

It's national pet memorial day on the 13th September.

The Origins of National Pet Memorial Day

Like many national days, the origins of National Pet Memorial Day are a bit fuzzy (pun intended). However, pet lovers and enthusiasts alike have embraced this special day as a time to remember and pay tribute to the cherished pets who have crossed the rainbow bridge.

Whether your pet was a loyal dog, a playful cat, a talkative parrot, or even a sneaky little hamster, National Pet Memorial Day is an opportunity to reflect on the joy they brought to your life and to honor their memory.

How to Observe National Pet Memorial Day

There are numerous ways to observe National Pet Memorial Day, each as unique as the pets we celebrate. Here are a few thoughtful ideas to make this day extra special:

Light a candle in remembrance of your pet
Create a scrapbook or photo album filled with cherished memories
Visit your pet's final resting place and leave flowers or a small token of love
Volunteer at an animal shelter or donate to a pet-related charity
Share stories and photos of your pet on social media, using the hashtag #PetMemorialDay

Did You Know?

Did you know that National Pet Memorial Day is not just limited to remembering our furry friends? It also serves as an opportunity to honor the working animals who have served us selflessly, such as police dogs and therapy animals. It's a day to recognize the unconditional love and support these animals provide.

History behind the term 'Pet Memorial'

1920

The emergence of pet cemeteries

In the year 1920, pet cemeteries began to appear as a way for people to pay homage to their beloved pets. This marked the starting point of the concept of memorializing pets. These cemeteries provided a dedicated space where grieving pet owners could lay their furry companions to rest.

1972

The term 'pet memorial' comes into use

Around the year 1972, the term 'pet memorial' started gaining popularity, referring to the act of commemorating and remembering deceased pets. As the bond between humans and their pets grew stronger, people sought various ways to honor their lost companions, leading to the use of this term.

1997

Online pet memorials flourish

By 1997, with the rise of the internet, online pet memorials became a widespread phenomenon. These digital platforms allowed pet owners to create virtual memorials for their departed pets, sharing their stories, photos, and memories with a wider audience. The internet provided a global space for grieving and connecting with others who had experienced similar losses.

2006

Pet memorial products and services expand

Around 2006, the market for pet memorial products and services started expanding. Recognizing the emotional significance of pets in people's lives, businesses began offering a variety of options to memorialize pets, such as personalized gravestones, custom urns, memorial jewelry, and even pet memorial tattoos. These products and services provided tangible ways for pet owners to keep their cherished memories alive.

2016

National Pet Memorial Day is established

In 2016, National Pet Memorial Day was established in the United States, providing an official day for pet owners to honor and remember their deceased pets. Celebrated on the second Sunday in September, this day serves as a reminder of the profound impact pets have on our lives and offers a time for reflection and healing.