What are you usual plans for April 14, the day before taxes are due? To stress out, scour your home for receipts and check how late the post office will be open in your town? We've got a better idea: Bash Dibra (starpet), dog trainer to the stars, is suggesting a new holiday, "You Can Take My Money, but Not the Love of My Pet" day.
Dibra is encouraging all pet owners to hug their pet or just spend some good-quality time with your favorite animals on April 14 – which just happens to be the same day the new First Pet, Bo, is coming home to the White House.
"You can redirect your anxieties," Dibra tells PEOPLE Pets. "You benefit and, of course, they always enjoy the moment and the love."
Dibra says that, especially in tough economic times, it's important to remember how valuable your bond with your pet is. He's talked with shelters about reaching out to the public around tax time, inviting them to hug, walk and even adopt pets as emotional support. Dibra has trained dogs for the likes of Matthew Broderick, Ron Howard and Alec Baldwin, written books on cat and dog training, and started Paws Across America, a pet advocacy group. On Tuesday he'll be hugging pets in Van Cortland Park in New York City's The Bronx.
Will you hug your pet today? Take our poll!
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