This special day was created in 2005 by Celebrity Family & Pet Lifestyle Expert, mother and pet lover, Colleen Paige. National Kids & Pets Day is dedicated to furthering the magical bond between children and animals and to help bring awareness to the plight of pets in shelters awaiting new homes.

"The future of our children and their ability to show compassion toward animals and each other, depends on us, to give them the skills necessary to make the world a better, kinder place to live, says Paige. Children with learning disabilities can greatly increase academic success reading to pets and pets help shy children to open up and feel more confident. The responsibility that a child can learn from caring for a pet is vital in their social development. Children that grow up with pets tend to be extremely nurturing and compassionate, making dedicated and loving parents and pet owners themselves. This, in turn, simply makes for a happier world. And who doesn't want that?"

National Kids and Pets Day encourages you to ADOPT rather than SHOP.  Millions of orphaned pets sit in shelters awaiting new homes. But be sure that your child and family are ready for a new pet. Click here for Colleen Paige's tips on child/pet safety and choosing the right pet for your family.

Celebrate your kids and pets... today and every day!