Apart from little kids, animals show us the purest form of love. National Kids and Pets Day was formed to increase awareness about the bond between our little ones and our pets, and the importance of choosing the right pet for our children at the right time.

Former Emergency Medical Technician (E.M.T) Colleen Paige had realized her calling and passion for animals at a very early age. She began to train dogs at the Los Angeles National Institute of Dog Training, then went on to become an animal behaviorist, interior designer, writer, photographer, and author. She also contributes to “The New York Times”, “Huffington Post”, “The Wall Street Journal”, “Total Health”, “People Pets”, and many more magazines, newspapers, and columns. Widely known as a celebrity pet and family lifestyle expert, this mom is the inspiring and philanthropic force behind multiple pet-friendly days including National Kids and Pets Day, National Dog Day, National Cat Day, National Puppy Day, National Pet Day, National Wildlife Day, National Beach Day and many more.

Colleen created this particular day, the National Kids and Pets Day, to help enhance the bond between children and animals, emphasize the safety aspect of putting children and pets together, while also raise awareness about the plight of animals at shelters.

The bond between child and dog is like no other. There's something about the innocence of a young pup that draws in children more than any other pet can. The child sees their dog as a best friend, someone they can play with all day long without fear of judgment or rejection.

Best friend, brother, sister, playmate, guardian, a partner in crime, confidant, shoulder to cry on, listener, safe place. These are all words that describe what a dog represents to a child. There is something truly special about this bond that is unlike anything else. The relationship between a child and their dog is filled with endless beautiful memories. In times of stress or sadness, the dog can be an ally who offers comfort when they need it most. Their relationship is one that the world needs more of. It's a bond that can't be broken by anything other than time, as they grow up together into adults.

Photos by Vicky Knowle of http://www.champagne.photo/

3-year-old Declan is a lucky boy who has the best of friends, his dog Bru! They love playing tug-of-war and fetch together, but what they really enjoy are cuddles. Bru makes a great warm cuddle pillow. Declan loves feeding him his favourite treats... when he’s not bossing around his furry friend! They are the best playmates! Declan loves to play with Bru and tell him all his secrets!