10 Ways to Celebrate Juneteenth With Your Pets

Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, the day when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, were finally informed of their freedom, long after slavery had been legally abolished. Today, Juneteenth is all about a lovely holiday, scrumptious food, and having a blast with the people you are close with. So why not let your cutest family member join the party? Yes, we are talking about your pets. 

Pets do not mean only cats and dogs. We mean all pets, including lizards as well. There are plenty of fun and harmless ways to get them in on the action. Let’s turn this day into a paws-itively awesome celebration for the whole crew!

As you start exploring ways to make Juneteenth a memorable day for your whole family, including pets, here are some helpful tips on things you need to take note of!

1. Juneteenth Pet Party at Home

A pet-friendly Juneteenth celebration doesn't have to be extraordinary. It can be just as fun as any other normal gathering. You just need to keep a checklist. Here are some fun ways to include your pets.

Tips to Plan a Pet-Friendly Celebration:

Pro Tip: Try to keep a stock of soft and chewy dog treats. You can reward these treats for good behavior during the party. These are especially helpful if guests are unfamiliar with your pet.

2. Juneteenth Cookout: What's on the Pet Menu?

Celebrations without great food are a big no-no. Your pets shouldn’t feel left out! While humans enjoy ribs, cornbread, and watermelon, pets can enjoy their own versions of tasty (and safe!) treats.

Dog-Friendly Cookout Options

Serving your dog a celebratory dish? Top it off with a scoop of the best premium dog food to make it extra scrumptious.

Cat Picnic Platter

For cats, keep it simple yet indulgent:

• Tuna on a plate
  
• Catnip sprinkles
  
• Freeze-dried chicken bites
  
• An ice cube with a toy inside for cooling fun
  

Add some fun from our list of the best cat toys and accessories for after-meal entertainment!

3. Educational Playtime: Honor History With Fun

Celebrating Juneteenth is also about learning and reflection. That doesn't mean your pets can’t join in. Here’s how you can educate and engage at the same time:

Crafts and Activities

These activities can help spark meaningful conversations with your little buddy. However, all these activities seem extra special, especially if you’re celebrating with kids.

4. Music, Movement, and Mood

Juneteenth is also a celebration of culture. Yes, your pets may not understand lyrics, we know. However, they can certainly enjoy the tune of the song!

Pet-Safe Jam Session

Create a Juneteenth playlist featuring legends like:

• Nina Simone
  
• Louis Armstrong
  
• Aretha Franklin
  
• Beyoncé
  
• John Coltrane
  

Let your pets roam, stretch, dance, or nap in the rhythm of liberation and joy.

For birds, music can be an incredibly enriching experience. Just be sure it's not too loud! And while you're at it, grab some new bird grooming supplies to keep them looking party-ready.

5. Fashion With a Message

Style your pets in Juneteenth-inspired fashion! Red, black, and green are the symbolic colors of the Pan-African flag.

Safety Note: Always choose breathable, non-restrictive pet clothing. Also, you need to administer your pet while they’re wearing it.

6. Celebrate with Non-Traditional Pets

Got a snake, hamster, or fish? They can party too! Here's how:

Reptiles

• Decorate their tanks with non-toxic themed decor.
  
• Treat them to new reptile accessories. You can choose from basking rocks, colorful hides, and much more!
  

Fish

• Give their tank a good scrub before the holiday.
  
• Upgrade their feeding setup with the best automatic aquarium feeder. This will allow your fish to get timed, reliable meals.
  

Small Animals (Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, Hamsters)

• Set up a themed playpen with red, black, and green chew toys.
  
• Use a small animal grooming kit to keep them clean and comfy for guests.
  

7. Attend a Pet-Friendly Juneteenth Event

Many cities host Juneteenth parades, fairs, and community events. Some even allow pets! Here’s how to find the exact place you can go to:

What to Look For:

• Events with pet-specific zones or shaded areas
  
• Water stations and poop bag dispensers
  
• Leashed-pet policies
  
• On-site vendors offering soft and chewy dog treats or toys
  

Don’t forget to bring:

Essentials Kit for Pets

• Leash or carrier
• Water bottle and bowl
• Treats
• Poop bags
• Blanket or mat
• Sunscreen (for light-coated pets)

8. Capture the Moment: Pet Photoshoot!

Celebrate the holiday with a Juneteenth-themed photo session. Here’s how to create Insta-worthy shots:

Setup Ideas:

Post your pet’s photos online with hashtags. You can go for #JuneteenthPets or #FreedomFurBabies that match the vibe!

9. Give Back With a Purpose

Juneteenth is also about community and uplifting others. Consider supporting or donating to pet shelters so that they get the benefit from this day.

Ideas to Give Back:

• Purchase from Black-owned pet brands
  
• Donate treats, toys, or grooming kits.
  
• Volunteer at your local shelter
  
• Foster a pet for the weekend.
  

Supporting inclusive businesses is very meaningful and should be done a lot.

10. Keep Pets Safe in the Summer Heat

Temperatures tend to rise in the month of June. So, in this particular period, the risk of overheating in pets also gets higher.

Heat Safety Tips:

Keep treats in a cool space. Also, offer some amount of breaks in between during outdoor celebrations.

Bonus: Juneteenth Pet Gift Guide

Here’s a quick roundup of some thoughtful gifts for your all-time little bestie this Juneteenth.

Final Thoughts: Celebrate Freedom, Together

Juneteenth is a time to learn, try different activities, and connect with your loved ones. Inclusion of your pets in this meaningful holiday can deepen your connection. You can develop a great bond not just with your furry ball but with the community and history around you.

So whether you're:

• Throwing a cookout
• Creating paw print art
• Simply snuggling on the couch to some music

Celebrating this day is a great way to build a tradition filled with love, learning, and liberty.