National Specially-Able Pets Day
May 3, Saturday
Purpose of the holiday
- Raise awareness about the lives of animals with disabilities
- Show that these pets can be incredibly loving, loyal, and active
- Encourage the adoption of special needs pets from shelters
- Support people who care for such pets
Which animals are considered "special"?
- Pets with amputated limbs
- Deaf or blind animals
- Those who move with the help of a wheelchair
- Animals with neurological or chronic conditions
- Those who require constant medical support
How to celebrate National Specially-Able Pets Day?
- Share stories or photos of your special pet on social media with the hashtag #SpeciallyAblePetsDay
- Support shelters and organizations that rescue and care for such animals
- Consider adopting a special needs pet
- Talk to children about how care and compassion make us better
- Thank veterinarians, volunteers, and everyone who helps animals with special needs
Why is it important?
- Many special needs animals do not find homes due to prejudice
- They need love and attention just like other pets
- Caring for such animals teaches empathy, patience, and unconditional love
Interesting fact:
The holiday was founded by veterinarian and animal rights activist Colleen Paige to change society's attitude toward animals with disabilities and to show that they can be great friends and full members of the family.