Celebrating Pets in June - Paws, Purrs, and Pride

🐾Hi there! I’m your resident pet-loving holiday enthusiast, a lifelong pet lover and your go-to holiday columnist for all things quirky and heartfelt.

As someone who’s definitely that person who talks to every dog on the sidewalk (and yes, sometimes their humans too), June is my absolute favorite month. Between tail wags, kitty cuddles, and a calendar packed with pet-themed holidays, June is the purr-fect time to spoil our furry friends. Let me take you through how my pack and I make June unforgettable, for them and the causes we love.

First Things First: June’s Monthly Pet Themes

June isn’t just sunshine and sprinklers; it’s a month to advocate for our animal pals. Three biggies stand out:

• Adopt a Shelter Cat Month: If you’re able, visit your local rescue this June, someone’s future best friend might be waiting. 
• Pet Microchipping Month: Advocates for the importance of microchipping your pet and reminds you to schedule a vet visit if you don't already have one. 
• Pet Preparedness Month: Reminds you of the importance of having an emergency kit for you pets - think leashes, meds, and even a “grab-and-go” bag. Disasters don’t care about summer vibes!

And of course… Pride Month! This is a fun month to dress your pet in rainbows and show support! Why? Because love is love, and pets are the ultimate allies in celebrating inclusivity.

June 1: Sheltie Dog Day

Even if you don’t have a Sheltie, spoil your dog with extra fetch time, he’ll thank you with slobbery kisses.

June 4: Corgi Day

Corgis are basically fluffy potatoes with legs, right? Celebrate by binge-watching corgi memes and supporting a local Corgi adoption event. Pro tip: If your pet’s a fan of “herding” socks into corners, dress them in a Corgi costume for giggles.

June 13: Peruvian Hairless Dog Day

A.K.A. Sphynx cat day in my book! If you’ve got a hairless pet, skip the sweater weather and opt for sunscreen, they can burn too!

June 14: Dog Dad Day

This one cracks me up and is a great day to gift the Dog Dad in your life with some merch. Think “World’s Best Dog Dad” mugs and tees.

June 22: Take Your Cat to Work Day

You know that your cat is queen or king of the house, try taking this royalty to work and see what happens! Be prepared for endless “aww-ing” over your cat as your cat takes the throne and displays all its cuteness!

June 20: Ugliest Dog Day

Ugliest Dog Day? That’s subjective, obviously, and the day was created for that purpose! To showcase the cuteness in every dog!

June 27: Take Your Dog to Work Day 

This is a great reminder to break the 9-to-5 monotony. Bring your adorable dog to work on this day and enjoy the fun and companionship. Bring treats for coworkers’ pups and turn the office into a tail-wagging party.

June 28: World Day Against Pet Abandonment

If you can’t foster or adopt, volunteer at a shelter, donate blankets or old towels, every bit helps.

How to Celebrate Other June Holidays with Pets

June’s packed with random fun. Here’s some ways to incorporate fun celebrations with your pets. 

• Pride Month: Rainbow collars, pronouns on pet tags (“they/them,” anyone?), and a donation to LGBTQ+ pet shelters.
• National Ice Cream Month: DIY “pup-sicles” with yogurt and blueberries. Skip the chocolate—it’s toxic!
• World Reef Day (June 1): Host a beach cleanup with your dog. Pawsitive impact!

Make Every Day a Treat for Your Furry Fam

June is a reminder that pets aren’t just animals, they’re family, advocates, and the reason we laugh daily (and occasionally cry over shredded couch cushions). Whether you’re dressing them in Pride gear, adopting a shelter pet, or just giving extra belly rubs, make this month about gratitude for their unconditional love.

What’s your pet’s favorite June holiday? Share your stories and photos #holidaysmart 🐶🐱