Happy National Pet Day! Special Offer Inside + 10 Ways to Celebrate

Happy National Pet Day! 🐾

Every April 11th, we get to do something we do every day anyway — celebrate the animals who make our lives infinitely better. But today, we have an official excuse to go all out.

Here are 10 meaningful ways to celebrate National Pet Day with the furry, feathered, or scaly companion in your life.

1. Commission a Custom Portrait

There's no better way to honor your pet than immortalizing them in a hand-painted portrait. A custom pet portrait captures who they are right now — their personality, their quirks, the look they give only to you. It's a gift that lasts decades.

Start your portrait today →

2. Take the Day Off Together

If you can, work from home or take a half day. Spend uninterrupted time with your pet — no phone, no distractions. Just you and them. You'll be surprised how much they notice.

3. Visit Their Favorite Place

Every pet has a favorite spot — a park, a trail, a beach, a sunny window. Take them there today. Let them linger as long as they want.

4. Make a Homemade Treat

Bake something special just for them. Dog-friendly peanut butter biscuits, frozen tuna treats for cats, fresh herbs for rabbits — a little kitchen effort goes a long way in the eyes of a pet.

5. Update Their Photo Album

When did you last take a really good photo of your pet? Today's the day. Get on the floor with them, find the best light, and capture who they are right now. These photos become the reference images for future custom pet portraits — and the memories you'll treasure most.

6. Donate to a Local Shelter

National Pet Day was created to raise awareness about animals in shelters. Honor your pet by helping one who's still waiting for their forever home — donate supplies, volunteer, or make a financial contribution to your local rescue.

7. Schedule a Vet Checkup

The most loving thing you can do for your pet is make sure they're healthy. If they're overdue for a checkup, book it today. Prevention is the best gift.

8. Learn Something New Together

Sign up for a training class, try a new enrichment activity, or teach them a new trick. Mental stimulation is one of the most underrated forms of pet care — and it deepens your bond.

9. Share Their Story

Post about your pet on social media today. Share how you found each other, what makes them unique, what they've taught you. Tag us @bolapawzi — we love seeing your pets and hearing their stories.

10. Simply Be Present

Put the phone down. Sit with them. Let them climb on you, curl up next to you, or just be in the same room. Presence is the gift they value most — and it costs nothing.