Love Your Pet Day

Love Your Pet Day History

National Love Your Pet Day encourages pet owners to show extra attention and affection towards their pets. It's a day dedicated to celebrating the special bond between humans and their pets, and reinforcing the importance of responsible pet ownership. The observance underscores treating pets with kindness, providing them with adequate care, nutrition, and regular exercise, plus awareness about animal welfare issues globally and locally.

The history of National Love Your Pet Day is not precisely established, but its ethos aligns closely with the values Australians hold towards their pets. Australian households are known for their high rate of pet ownership, with around 61% having at least one pet. This event prompts Australians to reflect and appreciate the companionship pets provide, the positive psychological impact they have, and their role in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The day also emphasises concerns specific to Australian pet owners such as local wildlife protection, responsible breeding, and the adoption of rescue animals.

In Australia, National Love Your Pet Day is observed in various ways. Pet owners might spoil their pets with a special treat, take them for an extra-long walk, or spend quality time with them. Pet-related businesses may host special events or offer promos. Animal welfare organisations utilise the day to highlight the adoption of homeless pets. Schools and community centres might organise education sessions on responsible pet care. National Love Your Pet Day is celebrated on 20th February each year.

Top 10 Facts for 2026 Love Your Pet Day in Australia

• Approximately 73% of households across the country now share their homes with a companion animal, bringing the total pet population to an estimated 31.6 million according to the Pets in Australia national survey.
• A significant shift in the Family Law Act recently moved companion animals into a distinct category of property, meaning Australian courts now consider the emotional attachment of family members and the history of care rather than just financial value during divorce settlements.
• The National Love Your Pet Day theme of celebrating the human-animal bond is deeply ingrained in local culture, with 65% of Australian dog owners reporting that they allow their pets to sleep on their beds.
• The Cavoodle remains the undisputed leader as Australia's most popular dog breed, reflecting a broader national trend towards hypoallergenic and family-friendly "oodle" crosses like the Groodle and Spoodle.
• Pet-inclusive travel has seen a massive surge, with a 260% year-on-year increase in bookings for dog-friendly vacation activities and luxury staycation packages like the Pup Yeah! designer sleepovers offered at boutique hotels.
• Social media influence continues to grow among local pet parents, as approximately 33% of Australian owners under the age of 35 have now created dedicated Instagram or TikTok accounts specifically for their dogs.
• Australians now spend an estimated $21.3 billion annually on pet care, with dog-owning households spending an average of $2,520 per year on premium nutrition, veterinary services, and high-end accessories.
• In Western Australia, 2026 marks the implementation of expanded council powers under the Cat Act, allowing for stricter cat containment rules and curfews designed to better protect native wildlife in suburban and regional areas.
• Regional Australian households are statistically more likely to own dogs, while cat ownership is significantly stronger in metropolitan cities where apartment-friendly lifestyles and urban density influence pet choice.
• As part of the National Love Your Pet Day celebrations, animal welfare organizations like the RSPCA emphasize that 86% of Australian owners credit their pets with having a direct positive impact on their mental and physical health.

In the News and Trending in Australia for Love Your Pet Day

Top things to do in Australia for Love Your Pet Day

• Show your pet affection. Take them for a walk, buy them a special treat, do something that shows them just how much you love them.
• Doggy Beaches: Australia boasts plenty of pet-friendly beaches where you can have fun with your pet. Popular choices are Rose Bay Dog Beach in Sydney, Brighton Dog Beach in Melbourne, and Tallow Beach in Byron Bay.
• Attend the Dog Lovers Show: Usually held in Melbourne, features exhibits, performances, and meet-and-greets for pet owners who love their dogs. There are numerous vendors showcasing the latest technology, toys, and food for dogs.