National Pet Week was founded in 1981 by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the AVMA Auxiliary and is now widely celebrated throughout the United States and other parts of the world. Each year, its goals are: to promote responsible pet ownership, celebrate the human-animal bond, and promote public awareness of veterinary medicine. Here are 25 great ways to celebrate National Pet Week!

Promote Responsible Pet Ownership

1. Become a pet owner by adopting a pet that’s appropriate to your lifestyle. A veterinarian can help you determine the best kind of pet for you.

2. Pet-proof your house by placing things that might be harmful to your pet out of reach like cords, garbage cans, and cleaning supplies.

3. Schedule an appointment for your pet’s regular annual or semi-annual examination with your veterinarian.

4. Prevent pet overpopulation by spaying or neutering your pet.

5. Make caring for your pet the entire family's responsibility by creating a "responsibility chart" with all the things your pet needs. Divide up the tasks among family members.

6. Brush your pet’s teeth regularly and routinely check your pet’s gums and teeth for swelling, redness or signs of pain.

7. Obesity is a growing problem with pets, so consult with your veterinarian about appropriate food and quantities for your pet.

8. Especially during warmer months, regularly check your cat or dog for fleas and ticks and use preventatives to stop harmful infections like heartworm.

9. Create a first aid kit for your pet and an action plan for what to do in case of a disaster or emergency.

10. When considering a snake, lizard or frog as a pet, please know that they need very special care (housing, temperature control, food) in order to remain healthy. It is a good idea to speak with a veterinarian if you're thinking about bringing a reptile or amphibian into your family.

11. Birds like to bathe themselves, so provide a clean bowl of water for your companion bird several times a week. Make sure to keep your bird warm and out of drafts until it is completely dry.

12. Birds can be very sensitive to cooking smells, so it is a good idea to keep your bird out of the kitchen.

Next: Celebrate the Human-Animal Bond