Pet Appreciation Week is upon us. From June 6 through June 12, owners of pets everywhere will celebrate their furry family members and show their appreciation for the companionship they share every week of the year.

Pet Appreciation Week, or PAW, is held annually the first full week of June since it was established in 1981 by the American Veterinary Medical Association. It is a week dedicated to showing gratitude to the four-legged friends and pet pals that greet you at the door when you come home, nuzzle your hand when you have had a long day and show excitement to see you first thing in the morning.  

Here are some ways you can make this week extra special for the lucky animals in your life: 

1. Get Your Pets a Present

Everyone enjoys getting a surprise, and pets are no different. Look for special toys that are safe for your pet and keep them active. There are now endless possibilities on the market for every type of pet, and many of these toys can be found at your veterinarian's office.

Consider a puzzle gift for your furry friend that asks the animal to figure out a function, such as pushing a button to make a squeaking sound or moving around parts to reveal treats within. Hamsters love digging towers and wooden mazes. Whether it is a bird on a string connected to a pole or an automated laser light, cats never tire of toys that have an element of the chase. 

If your pet is older or otherwise has difficulty getting around, consider a tufted sofa, cat lounger or heated pet bed that makes resting and relaxing even more enjoyable for your four-legged friend.

2. Take Them Somewhere Special

Many pets enjoy exploring new places and frolicking in unknown spaces. If there is a new doggie park you have been meaning to check out or a pet-friendly beach to investigate, Pet Appreciation Week is the perfect time to plan the trek. Your pet will love making memories in a new place with you.

3. Equip Your Furry Friends with Something Smart

Technology has greatly expanded the options pet owners now have to raise and gift their animals. Consider investing in a smart gadget that contributes enjoyment and provides benefits for your pet.

You will both love a smart feeder or kitty litter box that saves you time and energy. Smart fetch machines give your fetch-loving pup hours running after and retrieving balls, providing endless fun, and burning energy when you do not have time to play fetch yourself. For anxious pets, there are now smart anxiety-relief systems that can help your stressed fur-baby become calm again.

4. Spend Quality Time with Your Pets

There is nothing more precious to your pets than the time that you and your family spend with them one-on-one, playing, cuddling, or just enjoying each other’s company. During this special week, make time every day to give your four-legged family members the attention they crave. Take them for an extra walk in the evening or allow them more outdoor time trying out a new toy.

Let them know how much you appreciate them with extra petting, scratching and general affection. Speak sweetly to them and verbalize your gratitude. Even if your pets cannot understand exactly what you are saying, your tone and demeanor can translate all the love you hold in your heart for them.

Pets hold a special place in a family’s life, and the family is the whole world to the animals. Show them your appreciation and contact Pet Hospitals of Hawaii to arrange a check-up and get more ideas for keeping them happy and healthy this week and always.