September 22nd is Remember Me Thursday. This event was started in memory of the adoptable pets who never got a chance to get a forever home, and also to help spread the words about homeless pets that are available for adoption. A Burlington, ON vet discusses this topic below.

History

Remember Me Thursday was started back in 2013 by Mike Arms, CEO of the Helen Woodward Center. Arms also created two more pet awareness events: the International Pet Adoptathon and Home 4 The Holidays, which resulted in 18 million pet adoptions. He started Remember Me Thursday to raise awareness and spread love for shelter pets, with the aim of increasing adoptions, decreasing the number of pets that are euthanized, and reducing puppy mill sales.

Increasing Popularity

Remember Me Thursday is definitely gaining traction. It’s racked up 2 billion social media impressions, and is supported in 190 countries. Over 700 animal welfare organizations have gotten onboard with candle-lighting ceremonies and other events. Many celebrities have also joined the movement, including Diane Keaton, Katherine Heigl, and Bethenny Frankel. Plus, some famous furry stars are helping out: these include internet celebrepets Cole & Marmalade and Tuna Melts My Heart.

Events

Many animal shelters are hosting Remember Me Thursday adoptathons and/or other events. In the past, events have included pet parades and media spots. You can also join contests to win funds or foods for a non-profit of your choice. All you need to do is send your adopted pet’s picture to the Remember Me Photo Contest. There’s also a virtual candle lighting, which you can participate in. You can find more information on the Remember Me Thursday website here.

How To Help

Since Remember Me Thursday is in large part a virtual event, one of the best ways to help is by spreading the word on social media. Share your adopted pet’s story and photo online. Be sure to use the hashtags #remembermeThursday and #Seethelight!

Prevention

When it comes to helping orphaned pets, one of the most important things you can do is get your own furry buddy spayed or neutered. Pet overpopulation is a huge problem, and is one of the main reasons there are so many pets in shelters to begin with. Please contact us here at Aldershot Animal Hospital, your local Burlington, ON pet clinic, for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!