National Pet Theft Awareness Day - Do you want to observe National Pet Theft Awareness Day, but don't know how? Don’t worry, we're here to show you the way!

National Pet Theft Awareness Day 2025 – February 14, 2025

National Pet Theft Awareness Day is on February 14, and we’re going to show you how you can observe the day in the best way possible. Do you know that it has been 34 years since National Pet Theft Awareness Day was celebrated for the first time? National Pet Theft Awareness Day as the name suggests is an awareness day dedicated to the protection of pets. Thousands of pets are reported to have been kidnapped every year, and this day is a reminder to take the necessary steps to protect our pets. This day encourages people to take safety measures to protect their pets and tell more people about its importance.

History of National Pet Theft Awareness Day

The origins of Pet Theft Awareness Day can be traced back to 1984. The actor Chris DeRose established Last Chance For Animals. This is a non-profitable organization for the welfare of animals, especially dogs. DeRose has been in a lot of trouble, including imprisonment, for attempting to break in and record videos of animal cruelty. He was jailed for trying to break into the U.C.L.A. Brain Research Institute, where dogs and animals were used for experiments. Another time, he secretly asked someone to make a video of dogs being butchered.The mission of this organization was to oppose the use of animals for scientific and medical experiments, textile production, and also entertainment. They also released the documentary named “Dealing Dogs.”In 1988, DeRose and his co-workers at Last Chance For Animals initiated the National Pet Theft Awareness Day to raise awareness of the rising number of pet thefts in the country. The secondary aim was to educate people to take steps to prevent the theft of their pets and animal trafficking. They suggested two methods for the protection of pets. One is a microchip put under the skin of the pet which contains all the information about the owner and their address. The other option is to get a collar with all your details for our dog.

National Pet Theft Awareness Day timeline

1948
Chris DeRose is Born

DeRose is born in Brooklyn, New York.

1960s
The Acting Career

DeRose appears in a variety of series including “General Hospital” and “The Rockford Files.”

1984
Last Chance For Animals

DeRose establishes Last Chance For Animals.

1988
National Pet Theft Awareness Day

National Pet Theft Awareness Day is created to raise awareness of the importance of protecting pets from animal trafficking.

National Pet Theft Awareness Day FAQs

What are some additional tips to keep my pets safe?

Take recent pictures of your pet. Protect your property with safety equipment. Request your neighbors to watch over your pet if you are out of the house. Most importantly, always be extra alert. Never leave your dog alone outside.

How has dog theft changed over the last four years?

Over the last four years, there has been a steady increase year-on-year. The year 2020 had the greatest number of dogs stolen.

How can I keep my dog safe from being stolen?

Walk with other dog walkers. Keep your dog in sight. Don’t wear headphones or talk on your phone when walking your dog. Never leave your dog unattended in your garden, outside shops, or in the car. Make sure your home and garden security work, and install outside sensor lighting and C.C.T.V. Call 999 if you’ve seen your dog kidnapped.

How to Observe National Pet Theft Awareness Day

  1. Protect your pets

    What better way to observe National Pet Theft Awareness Day than to take steps for protecting your pets! You can either insert a microchip into your pet, get a marked collar or opt for the tattoo method. Also, install C.C.T.V. at your home if you haven't already

  2. Share it on social media

    Let everyone know the importance of this day. Spread awareness on the issue of pet safety and educate others on how they can save their pets. Write informative articles and post them on your social media page.

  3. Organize a rally

    You could organize a rally in your neighborhood as a local dog show. After the show, let a speaker from the local pet rescue talk about keeping their poochies safe.

5 Facts About Pets That Will Blow Your Mind

  1. Distinctive nose prints

    Dogs are said to have unique nose prints.

  2. Many animals are adopted per year

    It is said that over 3.2 million animals are adopted in America every year.

  3. The cat's meow

    Cats are said to not meow at each other and only meow at people.

  4. Dogs are on time

    It is said that dogs and even puppies can sense time and know when it is time to eat and sleep.

  5. Guinea pigs

    Guinea pigs are from South America and not from Guinea.

Why National Pet Theft Awareness Day is Important

  1. It reminds us of the importance of protecting our pets

    Thousands of pets are stolen every year from their owners and this day is a reminder of how important it is to keep our pets safe. It encourages taking precautionary steps like inserting microchips or tattooing.

  2. It reminds us of our responsibility to educate others

    Some of your friends might love their pets a lot but might be unaware of the dangers lurking. Sometimes, they simply might not know what to do to keep their pets safe. Pet theft is on the rise, and it is our responsibility to educate our friends and family about pet safety.

  3. It gives us a chance to improve our knowledge

    This is also a day of learning. This day gives us an opportunity to learn more about the amazing life of DeRose and his dedication to the safety and welfare of animals. It makes us appreciate the struggles of the man and also the inspiration behind the establishment of his organization.

National Pet Theft Awareness Day dates

Year Date Day
2023 February 14 Tuesday
2024 February 14 Wednesday
2025 February 14 Friday
2026 February 14 Saturday
2027 February 14 Sunday