International Dog Day is TODAY – how can we celebrate?
DOG lovers rejoice! Today is International Dog Day, the day the world celebrates its love for man's best friend.
Read on to see how you can celebrate your furry friends to the fullest...
What is international dog day?
International Dog Day began in the US as
It was started by by Pet & Family Lifestyle Expert and Animal Advocate, Colleen Paige.
The day, August 26 is especially poignant for Colleen as it's the date that Colleen's family adopted her first dog "Sheltie."
On their website, National Dog Day describes its aim as "to help galvanize the public to recognize the number of dogs that need to be rescued each year and acknowledges family dogs and dogs that work selflessly each day to save lives, keep us safe and bring comfort."
In 2013, the day was written into New York State legislation and has since been adopted the world over by dog lovers of all nationalities.
How can you celebrate international dog day?
International Dog Day is a time to celebrate our special pets, but also to help and recognise the number of dogs worldwide who face cruelty and harsh conditions.
The day was created to recognise all dogs - from family pets, to service dogs, to those awaiting adoption.
Here's what you can do to help the cause:
- Make a donation to a local animal charity, has a great directory of affiliate organisations who organise dogs for the deaf, guide dogs, therapy dogs and many more.
- You can also volunteer with many animal charities, for instance who provide specially trained assistance dogs for disabled UK Armed Forces and Emergency Services personnel whose quality of life can be improved by a partnership with a pooch.
- If you're thinking about getting a pet dog - what better day to get the ball rolling than International Dog Day? The has a whole host of information on how, and why you should re-home a dog.
- If you're not quite prepared to take the plunge and a adopt a dog full time, why not sponsor a dog? Check out .
- Check out some of Sun Online's best dog stories - like these hero dogs who died defending a baby from a deadly cobra, this super dog who was shot in the nose protecting his family from thugs and this handy guide on how to keep your pups cool in the heat.
- And if you've got your own furry friend, treat them to a lovely long walk or some treats - they deserve it!
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