As baby boomers, many of us grew up in a time when pets were considered part of the family, whether they were the loyal dog in the yard or the cat curled up in the window!
Over the years, our love for animals has deepened, and today, more than ever, we recognize how much joy and companionship pets bring into our lives. But not all animals are as fortunate to find loving homes. That’s where Remember Me Thursday comes in.
The Origins of Remember Me Thursday
Started in 2013 by the Helen Woodward Animal Center, Remember Me Thursday was created to bring awareness to the millions of pets waiting in shelters and rescue centers for their forever homes. Each year, on the fourth Thursday of September, animal lovers around the world come together to “shine a light on orphan pets.” The goal is simple: to remind people that there are so many animals who need homes and to encourage adoption.
For those of us who have opened our homes to a pet, we know the joy that comes with giving an animal a second chance. Remember Me Thursday is not just about celebrating the pets we’ve loved but also about raising awareness of the millions who are still waiting.
How to Honor and Celebrate Remember Me Thursday
There are many ways to honor Remember Me Thursday, and whether you’re an animal lover, pet owner, or advocate, your actions can make a difference:
- Light a Candle – On this day, many people light a candle to honor the pets they’ve loved and to shine a light on those who are still waiting in shelters. You can participate in person or virtually by sharing a photo of your candle on social media.
- Share on Social Media – One of the best ways to spread the word is by using the hashtag #RememberMeThursday. By posting pictures of your pets, sharing stories, or simply reminding others about shelter pets, you can help raise awareness.
- Adopt or Foster – If you’re considering adding a new member to your family, visiting your local shelter is a great way to celebrate this day. Even fostering an animal for a short time can provide them with a much-needed break from the shelter.
- Volunteer or Donate – Not everyone can adopt, but many shelters rely on donations and volunteers to keep things running. Whether you give your time or a little money, it can go a long way in helping these animals.
- Share Your Story – Baby boomers have lived through generations of change, and our stories matter. Sharing your personal experience with a pet you adopted from a shelter can inspire others to do the same.
As boomers, we have experienced many of life’s joys and challenges, and for many of us, pets have been by our side through it all. Remember Me Thursday is a wonderful reminder that pets—whether they are from a shelter or a breeder—bring something special into our lives. We understand the importance of companionship, especially as we age, and adopting a pet can be a way to continue building meaningful connections.
So, this year, on Remember Me Thursday, let’s shine a light on the shelter pets who need homes and show the world how much love they can bring. After all, giving a pet a second chance is one of the most rewarding things we can do!
