Here are some ways to celebrate your furry friend.

According to National Day Calendar, National Pet Day was founded April 11, 2005 by Celebrity Pet Lifestyle Expert & Animal Welfare Advocate Collen Paige. Paige wanted to bring attention to the ongoing needs of many pets of all kinds waiting in shelters to be adopted.  While loving our pets is something we do every day, some pets don't often get the attention they deserve. The day encourages pet adoption. Cats, dogs, birds, and even tigers, are celebrated on this day. There are many ways those in the Hudson Valley, NY area can observe this special day celebrated annually.

Also See: John Regan Tribute Conceret Set For Wappingers Falls, NY

How to Observe National Pet Day

Adopt a Pet

There are many shelters throughout the Hudson Valley with dogs and cats just waiting for their new forever homes. Like the Dutchess County SPCA in Hyde Park, NY for example. Visit a local shelter and adopt if possible.

Take Supplies To Shelters

If you are unable to adopt, take supplies to a local shelter. Animal shelters are always relying on donations from residents for much needed supplies such as food, treats, leashes, cat litter, blankets and towels, cleaning supplies etc. Cash donations are always accepted and appreciated of course too.

Give Your Pets Extra Love

A bath or belly rub will make for a happy pet. Maybe take a trip to the dog park to run around and play fetch with your beloved pet. There are plenty of dog parks all over the Hudson Valley. If you happen to be in the Poughkeepsie area, I  recommend Spratt Park off Wilbur Blvd in Poughkeepsie. The J Tracy Hermann Memorial Dog Park at Spratt Park is great! Lot's of open space, and even a water fountain for your pooch.

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Those are just a few of the ways you can observe National Pet Day 2022. I adopted my English bulldog Jax in 2015 and he has become a great companion. I take him with me on road trips and everyone seems to love Jax wherever we go. No better feeling than adopting a pet and giving them a forever home. I salute Jax for National Pet Day! How will you be celebrating? Use #NationalPetDay when posting to social media.

Hudson Valley Pets

Pets can be product spokesanimals in this age of social media. Nationally they earn hundreds of thousands of dollars. So we asked Hudson Valley pet parents what their fur baby could endorse. Here are just a few of the many who responded. Good luck to those who want to be an InFURencer

Gallery Credit: Paty Quyn

Toxic Flowers to Keep Away From Your Pets

Though pretty, these flowers are prone to cause issues with dogs and cats, so if you're thinking about gifting one of these to your special someone, make sure you don't let the animals get to them!

Gallery Credit: Maria Danise

Non-Toxic Flowers That Are Safe For Pets

Contrary to our list of unsafe flowers for pets like cats and dogs, here are some flowers for your sweetheart that are a safe bet for the animals as well!

Gallery Credit: Maria Danise

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