A day for pets

Today, and November 22nd annually, is "Pet thanks day". It is also "Animal Smile Day". It is a day to express our gratitude to the pets who live with us. Animals living in homes are not just pets, but important family members. They bring us joy and healing.

The objectives of both "Pet Thanks Day" and "Animal Smile Day" are more or less the same; to be grateful to our pets. It is an opportunity to think about the quality of life  of animals living with humans and aim for better coexistence. November 22nd (22/11) was chosen as the anniversary for both commemorative days because the date is a pun on the sound of a dog barking "Wan Wan (11)" and a cat meowing "Meow Meow (22)".

It can be quite difficult for short term expatriates to have a pet in Japan. Sometimes people bring them with them from abroad. That in it itself can be quite the ordeal as many pets need to quarantine and there are several regulations and stipulations involved. The feature photo is of my pet rabbit, who unfortunately died a couple of years ago. He was an important part of our family and he was much loved and is still missed madly.

Did you bring any pets with you to Japan? And / or did you get any while in Japan?