As National Pet Week® (May 4–10, 2025) approaches, J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue (JRAAR) is calling attention to the importance of responsible pet ownership following an unprecedented start to the year. In just the first three months of 2025, over 2,000 animals have been surrendered to JRAAR—highlighting the urgent need for education, advocacy, and support for current and prospective pet owners.
To celebrate National Pet Week®, JRAAR will be promoting the adoption of more than 1,000 animals currently in its care, while encouraging the public to consider adopting from shelters across the country. The week will feature online education campaigns, adoption spotlights, and community outreach activities focused on giving pets the healthy, happy lives they deserve.
“National Pet Week is a perfect reminder that pet ownership is a lifelong commitment—not just a trend or a temporary interest,” said John Moyles, founder of JRAAR. “After 30 years in this field, I can say with confidence that the best way to prevent pet surrenders is by helping people make informed choices and supporting them every step of the way. We hope to see many of our animals find homes this May, but even more importantly, we want to see those homes last a lifetime.”
Created by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) in 1981, National Pet Week® celebrates the bond between people and their pets and aims to educate owners about what their animals need to live long, fulfilling lives. Each day of the week emphasizes a different aspect of responsible pet care, from proper nutrition and vet visits to emergency planning and behavioral enrichment.
With an ever-growing need for rescue support and rehoming efforts, JRAAR is urging individuals and families to consider how they can help—by adopting, donating, fostering, or sharing the message of responsible pet ownership.
About National Pet Week®
Observed annually during the first full week of May, National Pet Week® (May 4–10, 2025) highlights seven daily themes:
- Sunday: Choose well: Commit for life
- Monday: Behavioral health: Habits for happy pets
- Tuesday: Nutrition and exercise matter
- Wednesday: Love your pet? See your vet!
- Thursday: Travel with care
- Friday: Emergencies happen: Be prepared
- Saturday: Plan for their care: Give them a lifetime of love
Each theme encourages actions that help pets live their best lives and reminds owners of their responsibility to provide love, care, and stability.
About J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue
J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue is Wisconsin’s largest exotic pet rescue, providing a responsible alternative for the surrender of unwanted exotic and aquatic pets. The organization is committed to preventing the release of these animals into the wild, rehoming them safely, and promoting lifelong, responsible pet ownership. Through education and environmental outreach, JRAAR works to reduce the negative impacts of the exotic pet trade and protect ecosystems throughout the Midwest.
To learn more, adopt, or support J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue’s mission, visit www.jraar.org or follow them on social media.