National PET Week Starts the Month of May

National Pet Week will be celebrated this year from May 3rd. - May 9th.  This celebration was created by the American Veterinary Medical Association and its Auxiliary in 1981 and is observed during the first full week of May each year.  Pets always make the world a little brighter.  Regardless of how tough things may seem, pets eagerly provide comfort, sympathy, and unquestioned understanding when we need it the most, such as what we are now experiencing due to Coronavirus. They give us everything, asking only for a smile in return, and maybe an occasional treat. 

The first world animal day was organized by Heinrich Zimmermann a German writer and publisher.  It was held on March 24, 1925  at the Sport Palace in Berlin, Germany with over 5,000 people in attendance.Pets have had their place in the movies.  Who could forget Lassie!  Actually the first dog to have a major role in a film was Blair, a collie.  In 1905, Blair played the role of Rover in the film, "Rescued by Rover".Pets are family members.  How they behave, interact, and thrive is dependent on how we raise them.  They are the best listeners.  Sometimes we just need to ask questions without needing an answer...we just want someone to listen!  While pets live with us, they are not in the same world.  They don't care about wealth, social status, job titles or looks.  They are the most accepting beings on Earth!  Pets provide positive physical and mental benefits for their owners, including decreasing blood pressure and depression. 

Not every pet is right for every human, but some animals consistently rank at the top of the popularity list.The two most popular animals as pets are dogs and cats.  They have been around for a long time!  Dogs became domestic around 36,000 B.C. and cats, specifically leopard cats, were undergoing domestication in China around 5,500 B.C,According to the American Pet Products Association, dogs are found in 46.3 million households in the United States.  The average dog owner has 1.7 dogs, meaning that there are about 78 million pet dogs.  They are generally easy to train, faithful and loyal and can go almost anywhere.  They will also protect your home and act as a playmate for the entire family.

We give you "Alarmer".  We captured this feisty dachshund in Trinidad, Cuba. We were strolling down the street when he loudly announced our arrival and his displeasure to his owner.Approximately 38.9 million American households own cats.  However, there are more cats than dogs, at 86.4 million, because cat owners tend to have more cats per household, around 2.2.  Cats can exercise themselves and don't need to be walked or taken outside to relieve themselves.  They keep themselves groomed and even when they are full, will gladly perform rodent-control duties.

"Feline Fantasy"  was taken in the Fishermen's Village in Punta Gorda, Florida.  While she couldn't read the menu, the smell of fish got her attention!  Always ready for a handout!While you can't curl up with them there are about 12.5 million households with an average of 12 fish, which adds up to 150 million fish!  Freshwater or salt water aquariums provide you with many calming minutes of watching these gorgeous creatures swim around. An aquarium makes an excellent addition to your décor!

"Clown Anemonefish" was captured in the Pacific Ocean.  We found "Nemo" in the area of the Solomon Islands as it seeked safety in the anemone tentacles.About 17 million birds perch in 5.7 million households in the United States. 

Birds provide entertainment and striking visual beauty.  "Seeing Double" was found in Jacksonville, FL.  While White Cranes are not usually kept as pets, they can become friends...usually somewhat distant friends.  My mother had  a special relationship with a crane she fed every morning.  Eventually the bird took pieces of chicken from her hand and stood by her front door every morning awaiting its breakfast!Almost 2 million horses are kept as companions in the United States, with an average of 2.1 number owned per household.  It can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $3,600 to maintain these animals.  For that reason they are not as common as you think.  You might be better off owning a fish tank!

"Sneaky Snack" was captured in front of the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Pisa, Italy.  This bored horse decided to see what the bicycle basket tasted like.  He didn't have much of a chance as his owner was quick on the draw and discouraged his nibbling with lots of loud reprimands and arm flailing.

These images are available in table top to wall size, triple matted and with or without a frame.  The matted versions are yours at a 10% discount and the framed matted versions in sizes 11x14 and larger can be yours at a 15% discount. Search this website, www.throughthelensoflee-margaret.com for available sizes and prices.

Stop by and see us on Monday through Friday from 10a.m. to 12 noon and 2p.m. to 5p.m.The gallery is open for arranged Saturday appointments.  Call us at 904-387-8710 to schedule your special visit.  Come see us and order now.

"Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened"

Anatole France (pseudonym for Jacques Anatole Thibault)