If you’re household is like the 39% of households in the nation who call themselves dog-owners or the 33% in the nation that consider themselves cat-lovers, be sure to brace yourself for the month of October.

There is not one but two awareness months to keep an eye out for this coming month.

The first, Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog Month, is a month where we not only celebrate dogs adopted from shelters but promote awareness that there are still far too many dogs in kill-shelters. Only 21% of the millions of dogs in the United States have been adopted from shelters, leaving millions more to stay their lives out in small cages. (or worse) Be sure to visit a shelter in October for great pet giveaways and a great selection in breeds you’ll want to take home!

The second awareness month taking place in October is National Animal Safety and Protection Month. This month is a great way to promote humane treatment of all animals, whether wild or domesticated. In New York alone, there were 100 cases (1200+ animals affected) of animal abuse last year. These cases ranged from abandonment to violent shootings. Be sure to treat all animals humanely and to report any abuse cases to the proper authorities.

Whether you work for a shelter, pet store or animal hospital be sure to promote your name, favorite pooches and their safety/well-being with custom imprinted picture frames and pet products.