Our pets mean the world to us

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We all love our pets dearly. The American Veterinary Medical Association has put together a list of ways you can be a responsible pet parent, and you can celebrate your pets the first week of May each year with National Pet Week.

Being a responsible pet parent involves making sure they are up to date on vaccines, have regular vet visits, eat healthy, get plenty of exercise, among other things.

Sounds a lot like what we require too. As we take care of ourselves, we can incorporate our pets into our routines, so that we all live happy and healthy lives. If you need books on how to care for your pet, from hamsters to horses or goldfish to geckos, visit the library. We can help!

Here are some fun ways to celebrate your pet during National Pet Week:

• Go for a walk or socialize with your pet inside
• Give them a special treat
• Give them a new toy & play with them
• Take a photo with them
• Groom them or clean their habitats
• Use a special ink pad to capture their paw prints (search online for "inkless ink pad for pets")
• Give them extra cuddles and pets

If you don’t have pets, you can give love to your family’s and friends’ pets. Another way to celebrate National Pet Week is to volunteer at your local animal shelter. Contact the Jasper County Animal Shelter, or another local shelter or veterinarian's office, and see what supplies they need. Work with others to gather supplies and donate them.