August 26 - National Dog Day

 

Happy National Dog Day! Every dog his his day, bu on August 26, today encourages dog ownership of all breeds. 

While seeking a new companion, be sure to consider the mutts, mixes, purebreds, and everything in between.  

Whether mixed or purebred, embrace the opportunity for all dogs to live a happy, safe, and abuse-free life. They all give us companionship.  

Additionally, they keep us safe, and they aid those in need. Dogs play. Well, they play many roles in our lives as well! They keep us healthy, both physically and mentally.  

While many days aim to find loving homes for dogs, this day expands that consideration to look beyond the breed. Look into the heart of the animal.  

The purpose of the National Dog Day Foundation is to rescue ten thousand dogs each year. 

After all, a dog is man’s best friend. 

Breeds 

Purebreds are animals whose parents were both of the same breed. While the American Kennel Club℠ (AKC) recognizes official breeds, not all dogs with parents from the same breed are considered official by the AKC.  

One benefit of purebred animals is that characteristics such as behavior and size are predictable. 

With mixed breed animals, the genetics becomes uncertain, and some of the predictability is lost.  

However, when it comes to choosing a dog to add to your family or for training one to join a team, both purebred and mixed breeds may still fit the bill. Both types of dogs, young and old, find their way to shelters. 

 When is National Puppy Day? 

  

Many popular breeds fill shelters due to recent films or television shows. 

Families buy an animal imagining they will make the perfect pet but are unprepared for the training, care, and other responsibilities that come with canine care.  

Regardless of their genetics, all dogs require care and training. If there’s a particular breed that has captured your heart, check the shelters. You might be surprised to find either a purebred or one that is a mix of the kind you’re fond of. 

When dogs find a forever home, their companionship creates lifelong benefits. They bring with them joy, loyalty, and devotion. 

Eventually, no matter the breed, these pets become family. 

HOW TO OBSERVE 

Listen to Dog Walking by The Knits from their album Pixel Parks. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NNabMTrRzhs 

When considering adoption, adopt, don’t shop. If you have your heart set on a purebred companion, consider visiting a website like bestfriends.org or petfinder.com to find one at a shelter.  

Learn how organizations like these are changing the way we adopt. As you search for your new family member, get prepared. Keep in mind the needs of a small versus large dog.  

Until you find your forever companion, consider volunteering at your shelter or becoming a foster parent. 

Use #NationalDogDay and post photos of your dog on social media. 

Take your dog for a walk. If you do not have a dog, ask to take your neighbor’s dog for a stroll, or volunteer at a shelter.  

Be sure to stock up on plenty of dog treats, too. 

https://www.amazon.com/b/?node=2975434011&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-3&pf_rd_r=FS9G90R7CRGS9083XGKR&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=d4b5f531-7227-4a37-b292-3f511050d7bc&pf_rd_i=2975312011&ref_=assoc_tag_ch_amzn1.curatedcontent.ATVPDKIKX0DER.2675fac6-e7c2-456b-b037-2e6e030af576&_encoding=UTF8&linkCode=ib1&tag=zoovioinc.-20&linkId=27918ded145f61c4f3bb881e1d49dc6d 

HISTORY 

In 2004, American author, artist, photographer, designer, former medic, conservationist, animal rescuer and pet lifestyle expert Colleen Paige founded National Dog Day. 

How can you show extra love to your furry friend today? 

#NationalDogDay

@NationalDogDay 

@AmericanKennelClub

@colleen_paige

@Petco

@PetSmart 

@Amazon  

@theknitsmusic 

@nichecinema