Forget velvet ropes and champagne toasts — the hottest parties this fall are happening at PetSmart, and the guest list is strictly four-legged (plus their humans, of course).
Starting this October, PetSmart is turning all of its stores across Canada, the U.S., and Puerto Rico into party central with its Birthday + Gotcha Bash, a monthly in-store celebration for your pet’s big day.
And yes, it comes with treats, activities, and even exclusive savings (because what’s a party without party favours?).
Pets Are the New It Crowd
According to new PetSmart data, a whopping 75% of Canadian pet parents already celebrate their furry friend’s birthday or “gotcha day” — that all-important adoption anniversary. But here’s the kicker: nearly half say they’d love to do more. Translation? Our pets are officially getting the VIP treatment, and PetSmart’s about to make it way easier to go all out.
Every month, stores will host a bash complete with free snacks, fun activities, and a $5-off coupon to help stock up on party essentials. Mark your calendar for these 2025 dates:
- October 4
- November 8
- December 7
So whether your Frenchie is a fall baby or your rescue cat has a December gotcha day, there’s a party waiting.
“Every pet deserves to be celebrated,” says Bradley Breuer, PetSmart’s VP of marketing. “Our Birthday and Gotcha Bash events are about turning milestones into joyful moments and making pets feel like the guest of honour.”
The Barkday Blueprint
If you’re more of a DIY type (or just want to flex your hosting skills), PetSmart also tapped Amanda Shaw, aka The Barkday Planner, to share her insider tips. Think of her as the Martha Stewart of the pet party scene.
Here are her five rules for throwing a bash that’ll have tails wagging:
1. Celebrate Their Quirks
Build the theme around what your pet loves: bubble play, sniffing games, or maybe just an endless charcuterie board (for dogs, of course).
2. Location Is Everything
Forget the dog park (no outside food, unpredictable guest list). Opt for a pet-friendly restaurant, an event space, or your own backyard, where you can curate the vibes.
3. Don’t Forget the Humans
Label human vs. pet treats (rookie mistake if you don’t), serve fun refreshments, and assign a party photographer so no one misses the Insta-worthy moments.
4. Safety First
Fresh water, extra leashes, and a chill-out zone are non-negotiable. Keep it fun, not frantic.
5. When in Doubt, Outsource
Not the planning type? That’s what PetSmart’s Birthday + Gotcha Bash is for. Show up, let your pet soak up the love, and connect with fellow animal lovers.
Whether you’re the kind of pet parent who hand-bakes doggy cupcakes or one who just wants a hassle-free way to spoil your pup, PetSmart’s new monthly parties are basically the Coachella of the pet world (minus the dust and questionable camping).
And honestly? We’re here for it. Because when your best friend never misses a chance to greet you at the door, the least you can do is throw them a party once a year, or better yet, every month.