The COVID-19 pandemic transformed daily life in the United States in ways few could have predicted. From remote work and virtual schooling to shifts in healthcare and shopping habits, Americans adjusted to a new normal almost overnight. One of the most profound and lasting impacts of the pandemic was on pet ownership and the broader pet care industry. At the same time, social media became an even more powerful source of connection, information, and entertainment for pet lovers nationwide.
Social Media Accounts Every Pet Lover Should Follow In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how COVID-19 changed the pet world in the U.S. and highlight five social media accounts every pet lover should follow for education, inspiration, and trusted advice.
How COVID-19 Changed Pet Ownership in the United States
A Surge in Pet Adoptions
During lockdowns in 2020 and 2021, millions of Americans sought companionship while staying home. Animal shelters and rescue organizations across the country reported a sharp rise in adoptions. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), pet adoption and fostering increased significantly during the height of the pandemic.
Families who previously hesitated to adopt due to busy work schedules suddenly had the time to care for a new dog or cat. Remote work made it easier to train puppies, help adopted pets adjust, and establish daily routines. Many shelters even experienced waiting lists, something rarely seen before 2020.
This surge permanently shifted how Americans view pet ownership. Pets became emotional support systems, companions during isolation, and integral members of the household. How COVID-19 Changed the Pet Industry & The Future of Pet Breeding: Trends in Ethical Breeding.
The Rise of Remote Work and Its Impact on Pets
Remote work changed pet routines dramatically. Dogs that were once alone for eight hours a day suddenly had constant companionship. Cats benefited from increased interaction and enrichment. Pet parents developed stronger bonds with their animals, leading to a deeper understanding of behavior, health, and emotional needs.
However, as offices reopened, separation anxiety became more common. Veterinarians and trainers reported increased behavioral issues among “pandemic puppies” who were not accustomed to being alone. This created a growing demand for professional training services, doggy daycare, and behavioral consultations across the United States.
Growth of Tele-Veterinary Services
Healthcare systems were not the only sector to adopt telehealth. Veterinary clinics also began offering virtual consultations. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) provided guidance to clinics on how to safely continue services during COVID-19 restrictions.
Curbside appointments, contactless payments, and online prescription refills became common. Tele-vet services allowed pet owners to consult professionals for minor concerns without visiting clinics in person. Even after restrictions eased, many Americans continued using these digital services for convenience.
This shift marked a modernization of pet healthcare in the U.S., making veterinary access more flexible and tech-driven.
Increased Spending on Pet Products
The pet industry experienced record-breaking growth during the pandemic. According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), U.S. pet industry expenditures reached historic highs as families prioritized pet food, toys, grooming products, and healthcare.
With fewer vacations and dining expenses, many households redirected discretionary income toward premium pet foods, supplements, and subscription services. Online shopping for pet supplies also expanded significantly, strengthening e-commerce platforms and auto-delivery services.
Stronger Focus on Pet Health and Wellness
COVID-19 heightened awareness of hygiene and preventive care. Pet owners became more diligent about vaccinations, parasite prevention, and routine checkups. There was also a noticeable rise in interest in pet insurance, as families sought financial protection against unexpected veterinary bills.
Mental health awareness during the pandemic also influenced how Americans care for pets. Enrichment activities, interactive toys, and structured routines became more important as people recognized pets’ emotional needs alongside their own.
5 Social Media Accounts Every Pet Lover Should Follow
As pet ownership evolved, social media became a vital platform for learning, community-building, and entertainment. Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or a lifelong cat enthusiast, these five accounts provide valuable insights tailored to U.S. pet parents.
1. American Kennel Club (AKC)
The American Kennel Club is one of the most trusted authorities on dog breeds, training, and health in the United States. Their social media platforms provide educational content about breed characteristics, responsible ownership, grooming tips, and canine sports.
Social Media Accounts Every Pet Lover Should Follow For dog owners seeking reliable, research-backed information, AKC’s accounts are invaluable. They frequently share updates on dog health studies, training techniques, and national dog events. Their content is especially helpful for families researching which breed fits their lifestyle.
2. The Humane Society of the United States
The Humane Society offers a broader perspective on animal welfare, rescue efforts, and responsible pet ownership. Their social media presence highlights adoption campaigns, animal protection legislation, and practical pet care tips.
Social Media Accounts Every Pet Lover Should Following this organization helps pet lovers stay informed about animal advocacy efforts nationwide. It’s also a meaningful way to support ethical treatment and community initiatives across the United States.
3. PetMD
PetMD is a well-known online resource for veterinary-approved pet health information. Their social media accounts share accessible articles about common illnesses, nutrition advice, behavior guidance, and preventive care.
For American pet parents searching Social Media Accounts Every Pet Lover Should Follow for credible health insights without overwhelming medical jargon, Pet MD strikes a strong balance between professional expertise and readability.
4. The Dodo
If you enjoy heartwarming rescue stories and uplifting pet videos, The Dodo is a must-follow. While their content is more entertainment-driven, they frequently spotlight adoption success stories and raise awareness about animal welfare issues.
The Dodo’s emotional storytelling resonates strongly with U.S. audiences and helps promote compassion toward animals nationwide.
5. ASPCA
The ASPCA provides educational content on adoption, pet safety, disaster preparedness, and cruelty prevention. Their social channels often feature rescue stories, safety alerts, and seasonal pet care advice relevant to American families.
Social Media Accounts Every Pet Lover Should Following the ASPCA ensures pet lovers stay informed about best practices and emergency preparedness, especially during hurricanes, wildfires, or extreme weather events that affect many parts of the United States.
Why Social Media Became More Important After COVID-19
Social Media Accounts Every Pet Lover Should Follow During lockdowns, Americans turned to social media for connection and information. Pet-related content experienced significant engagement growth as people spent more time online. Educational videos, live Q&A sessions with veterinarians, and virtual training classes gained popularity.
Social media also helped normalize discussions about separation anxiety, behavioral challenges, and mental health for both pets and owners. Online communities provided reassurance that many families were facing similar adjustments.
Even today, social media remains a primary source of pet education and entertainment. However, experts recommend verifying health information through reputable organizations and licensed veterinarians rather than relying solely on viral posts.
The Long-Term Future of Pet Care in the U.S.
The pandemic permanently elevated the role of pets in American households. Pet-friendly housing demand has grown. Employers increasingly consider pet-friendly workplace policies. Travel accommodations now often highlight pet inclusivity.
Digital innovation in pet care continues expanding, including smart pet trackers, automated feeders, and app-based training platforms. Subscription boxes tailored to breed size, dietary preferences, and enrichment needs have also become mainstream.
At its core, COVID-19 strengthened the human-animal bond. Americans recognized how much emotional stability and companionship pets provide during uncertain times. That appreciation continues shaping consumer behavior, healthcare decisions, and lifestyle choices.
Final Thoughts
Social Media Accounts Every Pet Lover Should Follow COVID-19 changed the pet landscape in the United States in profound ways. From increased adoption rates and tele-veterinary services to record-breaking pet industry growth, the pandemic reshaped how Americans care for their animals. Pets became central sources of comfort and connection during isolation, deepening bonds that remain strong today.
At the same time, social media emerged as a powerful educational and community-building tool for pet lovers. By following trusted organizations like the American Kennel Club, The Humane Society, Pet MD, The Dodo, and the ASPCA, pet owners can stay informed, inspired, and connected.
As we move further into a post-pandemic world, one thing is clear: pets are no longer just companions. For millions of Americans, they are family—and the way we care for them will continue evolving with that understanding.
The COVID-19 pandemic transformed daily life in the United States in ways few could have predicted. From remote work and virtual schooling to shifts in healthcare and shopping habits, Americans adjusted to a new normal almost overnight. Social Media Accounts Every Pet Lover Should Follow One of the most profound and lasting impacts of the pandemic was on pet ownership and the broader pet care industry. At the same time, social media became an even more powerful source of connection, information, and entertainment for pet lovers nationwide.
Social Media Accounts Every Pet Lover Should Follow In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how COVID-19 changed the pet world in the U.S. and highlight five social media accounts every pet lover should follow for education, inspiration, and trusted advice.
