Happy National Pet Day!

Today (April 11) is National Pet Day – and what better excuse to give your four-legged (or finned or feathered) friends an extra cuddle, treat, or walk?

At Exeter Today, we know how much pets mean to our readers. Whether they’re snuggled on your sofa, thieving your lunch, or making muddy paw prints through the house, they’re part of the family — chaos and all.

Did you know nearly 60% of UK households own a pet? Dogs remain the most popular choice, followed by cats, rabbits, guinea pigs and even reptiles. No matter the species, National Pet Day is a chance to celebrate the joy animals bring to our lives — and the vital role they play in our wellbeing.

The day was founded in 2006 by animal advocate Colleen Paige to raise awareness of adoption and the thousands of pets still waiting in shelters for their forever home. If you’re considering adopting, why not contact a local rescue like the Exeter branch of the RSPCA, Animals in Distress in Ipplepen, or Ferne Animal Sanctuary?

And of course, let’s hear it for the vets, dog walkers, pet sitters, groomers, and all those who help keep our animal companions happy and healthy.

I'm celebrating the day with my very own home office companion - Odin the rescue staffy, more lovingly known as Odie and the handsome boy in the picture. A proper sun worshipper who thinks water is the enemy, he’s happiest with a bone in one paw and a tennis ball in the other. 

To mark the day, we also want you to get involved! Send us your best pet pictures - from dogs and cats to chickens, snakes and hamsters - and we’ll post our favourites in a special gallery on our website.

Email us at: elizabeth.kings@clearskypublishing.co.uk

So give your pet a scratch behind the ears and join us in celebrating National Pet Day. And if you’ve been thinking about rescuing an animal, maybe today’s the day to take that first step.