- U.S. pet-owning households reached 77.5 million in 2025
- Nearly 80% of owners consider pets part of the family
- Dog population rose to 87.3 million; cats to 76.3 million
- National Pet Week theme: “Happiness is a Healthy Pet”
- AVMA emphasizes preventive care, nutrition, and exercise
- Daily themes address behavior, wellness, travel, and emergency preparedness
U.S. pet ownership continues to grow, reaching 77.5 million households in 2025, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). The data reflects an increase of more than 8% since 2016, underscoring the expanding role pets play in American households.
At the same time, the human-animal bond is strengthening, with nearly 80% of pet owners now considering their animals to be members of the family. Dog and cat populations have also increased significantly over the past decade, rising to 87.3 million and 76.3 million, respectively.
National Pet Week focuses on preventive care
To celebrate these trends, the AVMA is observing National Pet Week from May 3–9 under the theme “Happiness is a Healthy Pet.” The initiative encourages pet owners to prioritize preventive care practices that support long-term health and wellbeing.
Veterinarians are urging owners to focus on regular check-ups, balanced nutrition, and consistent exercise, noting that more than half of dogs and cats in the United States are overweight or obese.
Daily themes promote comprehensive pet wellness
Each day of National Pet Week highlights a different aspect of responsible pet ownership, including selecting the right pet, supporting behavioral health, maintaining proper nutrition and exercise, and ensuring regular veterinary visits.
The campaign also addresses practical considerations such as safe travel, emergency preparedness, and planning for pets’ long-term care as they age.
Strengthening the human-animal bond
AVMA leadership emphasizes that while the human-animal bond is worth celebrating, it also carries responsibility. Preventive care and informed decision-making can help extend pets’ lives and improve their quality of life.
Resources, including a National Pet Week toolkit, are available to both pet owners and veterinary professionals to support participation and education efforts.
Information sourced from the company’s press release.
