On April 11th, people around the globe celebrated National Pet Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the joy and companionship that pets brought into our lives, reminding others of how much happier they made us at home, school, and beyond. At San Dimas High School, both students and teachers took the opportunity to reflect on the special bond they shared with their pets and how their companions brought comfort, laughter, and emotional support to their daily lives.

Senior Ryleigh Hawthorne says her two dogs, Auggie and Angus, are basically her animal best friends.“Auggie’s the little white one, super hyper and always running around,” she said, “Angus is the brown one, and he’s way more chill. He just likes to vibe.” For Hawthorne, coming home to them after a long day at school is the best part of her routine. “They always know when I’m stressed or tired. Just being around them makes everything better,” she said. Like many students at San Dimas High School, Hawthorne sees her pets as more than just animals, they’re her go-to source of comfort and joy, especially on the tough days.

Junior Keren Situ has a turtle named Donatello, who she describes as chill and relaxed. “He’s honestly the most relaxed pet ever,” Situ said. Unlike most pets who hang out indoors, Donatello spends most of his time outside, soaking up the sun in his little outdoor setup. “He loves being outside, either in the fountain or the ground, it’s like his natural habitat,” she said. Even though he’s not the cuddliest companion, Situ says having Donatello around brings a peaceful vibe to her day. His slow, steady presence offers a quiet kind of comfort, reminding her to slow down and take a breather. Watching him roam around the backyard has become one of her favorite parts of the day.

National Pet Day showed just how meaningful the bond between humans and animals can be. Whether it’s the playful energy of a dog or the calm presence of a turtle, pets continue to brighten people’s lives every day. Their loyalty, comfort, and companionship remind us to slow down and appreciate the small moments. In every interaction, our pets show us love in their own unique ways.