National Pet Choking Prevention Day

National Pet Choking Prevention Day is observed every year on June 22. In 2026, this date falls on a Monday. This awareness day focuses on the everyday objects, treats, toys, and household items that can become choking hazards for dogs, cats, and other companion animals. It asks pet owners to look closely at chew time, playtime, and the small things pets can reach at home. The tone of the day is practical and serious, with an emphasis on prevention, supervision, and knowing what to do in an emergency. ¹

See also: Pet Tech CPR Day, National Pet Travel Safety Day, National Pet Fire Safety Day, National Dog Parent Appreciation Day

History of National Pet Choking Prevention Day

National Pet Choking Prevention Day was first recognized in 2023 as an awareness campaign connected with Bow Wow Labs and veterinarian Dr. Judy Morgan. The campaign was built around a simple safety goal: reducing preventable choking incidents among pets. Its early messaging focused especially on common risks such as balls, sticks, chew toys, bully sticks, long-lasting chews, food packaging, string, blind cords, plastic, rubber bands, and hair ties. The observance grew from the idea that many pet choking emergencies begin with ordinary items already inside the home.

The day is now understood as a pet safety observance rather than a lighthearted pet holiday. It connects veterinary experience, product safety, home safety, and owner education in one practical message. Pet choking can happen quickly, and the risk is not limited to one breed, size, or age of animal. By setting aside a specific date for the topic, the observance gives pet owners a clear reason to check their homes, rethink unsafe habits, and talk with veterinarians about safer toys, treats, and emergency response.

Why is National Pet Choking Prevention Day important?

National Pet Choking Prevention Day matters because choking is frightening, sudden, and often preventable. Pets explore with their mouths, especially when they are young, bored, excited, or focused on food. A chew that becomes too small, a toy that breaks apart, or a loose household item can create an airway risk in seconds. The day turns that danger into a practical checklist: choose the right size, supervise chewing, remove damaged toys, and keep small objects out of reach.

The observance also helps pet owners think beyond obvious hazards. A safe item for one animal may be dangerous for another, especially in homes with dogs and cats of different sizes. Families with children may have extra risks from small toys, food scraps, bottle caps, craft supplies, or dropped items. Better awareness can lower panic in an emergency because owners are more likely to notice warning signs, contact a veterinarian quickly, and learn pet first aid before a crisis happens.

• It puts attention on hazards that are easy to overlook.
• Safer chew habits can prevent painful emergencies.
• Proper toy sizing matters for every pet.
• Supervision is especially important during treat time.
• Pet first-aid knowledge can make owners more prepared.

How to Observe National Pet Choking Prevention Day

Walk through the home and look for items a pet could grab, chew, swallow, or get tangled in. Check under furniture, around trash cans, near children’s toys, beside food storage areas, and anywhere pets spend unsupervised time. Throw away broken toys, chews that have become too small, and anything with loose parts that could detach. During meals and treat time, stay nearby and make sure the pet is chewing safely instead of gulping or breaking off large pieces.

Use the day to build safer routines that last beyond June 22. Ask a veterinarian which treats and toys are suitable for a pet’s size, age, chewing style, and health needs. Learn the signs of choking, keep emergency veterinary contact information easy to find, and consider a pet first-aid class from a reputable provider. Share practical safety reminders with other pet owners in a calm, helpful way, especially when discussing common hazards that many people keep in their homes without thinking twice.

• Replace damaged toys before they break apart.
• Keep hair ties and rubber bands in closed containers.
• Choose balls too large to fit fully in the mouth.
• Supervise bully sticks and long-lasting chews.
• Save the nearest emergency vet number in a phone.

National Pet Choking Prevention Day Dates

1. https://nationalpetchokingpreventionday.com/[↩]