May 3rd Is National Specially-Abled Pets Day

May 3rd is National Specially-Abled Pets Day! They may be physically-disabled in different ways, but these guys are all heart! 

National Specially-Abled Pets Day is celebrated every year, nationally and internationally, singing the praises of these heroic animals while encouraging adoption throughout the year. Keep reading to find out more about this special day, these special pets, and how you can get involved. 

History of the Day

National Specially-Abled Pets Day was formerly known as National Disabled Pets Day until Colleen Paige, animal rescue advocate and the founder of Pet & Family Lifestyle Expert changed the name in 2006. She did this to get rid of the negative stigma the word “disabled” carries. The truth of the matter is that “disabled” animals are very able in every sense of the word. They’re able to love, to feel, and to enjoy good and healthy lives. 

Unfortunately, these animals often get overlooked in shelters due to the extra care they need, when actually they can make for some of the most loving pets a family can have. For these reasons, National Specially-Disabled Pets Day was founded. 

Specially-Abled Pets 

Specially-abled pets have gone through difficult life experiences, be it due to injuries, disease, or birth flaws. But that doesn’t stop them from being their natural loving and adorable selves! And amazingly, many of these dogs and cats develop stronger senses, such as an extraordinary sense of smell or excellent hearing, than the average pet.

These guys come in all shapes and sizes:

• Some may have deformities, like a leg that bends the wrong way
• Some have lost an eye or an ear
• Some may be blind or deaf
• Some may have missing limbs

Despite these challenges, these animals adapt quickly, acting as if they’re just as able as any other pet. And just like with other pets, a little love can go a long way towards bringing out the very best in them. 

How Can I Get Involved?



While not everyone is able to adopt a specially-abled pet, those of you who can may well find one that’s perfect for you and your family. Check with your local animal shelters and rescue organizations. Also, the website, Pets With Disabilities maintains a current listing of dogs and cats across the country, both from shelters and from pet owners. 

You can also follow the stories of some pretty famous specially-abled pets on Facebook, including Mr. Magoo, an adorable blind kitty, Harley, a Chihuahua with one eye, and Lazarus, a cat with a cleft palate.

If you have more questions about these precious pets or want to adopt one of your own, call us anytime. We can help!