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

Celebrate the Human-Animal Bond

1. Pets can get lonely when their owners are away at school or work, so schedule regular playtime with your pet.

2. Organize a community event with other pet owners in your neighborhood.

3. Studies have shown that taking regular walks with your dog will benefit both your and your pet’s health.

4. Help make it possible for others to enjoy the benefits of pet ownership by making a donation to a local animal shelter or volunteering your time.

5. Start a photo album of pictures of you and your family with your pet.

6. Visit a neighbor who doesn’t get out of the house much and bring your pet along to help keep this person company.

7. Throw out your pet’s old, dirty, or shredded toys and treat it to a new toy.

8. Find and tell at least one person who doesn’t own a pet about the benefits of pet ownership and encourage them to adopt a homeless animal at a local shelter.

Next: Increase Awareness about Veterinary Medicine

Increase Awareness about Veterinary Medicine

1. Visit a zoo, nature conservancy, farm, ranch or state fair to learn about how animals other than pets need care from human beings, including veterinary care.

2. Visit the American Veterinary Medical Association Web site (please note: you will be leaving AnimalPlanet.com) to find out what it takes to be a veterinarian.

3. Students and parents should encourage teachers to include veterinarians in career days.

4. Encourage children to "play veterinarian" by setting up an imaginary exam room with stuffed animals.

5. During your next visit, talk with your veterinarian about why he or she decided to become a veterinarian.