How to Celebrate National Dog Day

On August 26th, the United States celebrates National Dog Day. On this formal day of recognition and appreciation, people pay tribute to the pets who have so thoroughly enriched their quality of life. The relationship between people and dogs is one of the most profound and wonderful interspecies relationships in the course of history. They’re an important part of people’s homes and families, and it’s only fitting that these awesome animals get their own day of celebration. Here are some of the best ways to mark the occasion.

Make a Donation to Your Local Animal Shelter

It’s important to remember that there are lots dogs that still need loving homes that are being cared for in animal shelters and being fostered in temporary homes. You can help your local shelter or humane society by making a monetary contribution or by donating some of the most commonly needed donation items such asfood and beds. Call a shelter in your area to find out how you can help. If you’re not able to donate money or supplies, you may be able to donate your time. You can help coordinate adoptions, provide care and cleaning services, or just help dogs socialize and spend time with other dogs to make them more adoptable.

Foster a Dog

As many shelters are overcrowded, they rely on help from volunteers to provide foster care until dogs can find forever homes. For many dogs, spending a long time in a shelter can be taxing physically and emotionally, and a temporary placement is a welcome alternative. In addition, some dogs with special needs may need constant care and attention that are best provided by a foster care giver.

Adopt a Dog

If you don’t have a dog or you have room for another furry family member in your pack, consider giving a home to a dog who needs you. There’s no better way to show your love for dogs by taking another into your home and heart. Consider getting a dog who has had a tough past or a senior dog who is less likely to be adopted than a younger dog.

Make Sure Your Dog is Up to Date With Medical Care

When you take care of a dog, one of your biggest responsibilities is medical care. If it’s been more than a year since your dog’s last wellness exam, make an appointment with your local veterinarian to make sure that your dog is in good health. A veterinarian can confirm if your dog is up to date on vaccinations and has good oral health. Some senior dogs may need to see their veterinarian more frequently than once per year.

Make Sure That Your Dog Is Super Comfortable

Everybody needs comfy furniture at home, and dogs are no exception. Get your dog a bed made from a great material such as foam. In warm August weather, your dog might like having a raised cot-bed to stay cool and comfortable.

Plan an Amazing Excursion

Celebrate National Dog Day with your dog by going on an outing that you know your dog will love. Go to the beach, go on a hike, or just go out somewhere that you know your dog loves exploring everything that there is to see and smell on a beautiful summer day. Bring essential items like a water bottle designed for dogs or a portable bowl .

Upgrade Your Collar and Leash to a Harness

When you’re taking your dog on excursions, it’s the perfect time to give up the old collar leash for a more comfortable and manageable harness. It’s physically better for your dog and reduces the risk or strain or injury to a smaller dog’s neck. A mesh Cloak & Dawggie harness is a breathable and lightweight option and a Doggles V shaped harness is a good pick that’s easy to put on. If you have a larger dog, using a harness will offer you more control without yanking on your best pal’s neck.

Give Your Dog the Healthiest Food Possible

If you’re feeding your dog whatever’s on sale on at the supermarket, it might not be the healthiest option. Ideally, you should give your dog food that’s formulated with all-natural or organic ingredients. The Honest Kitchen makes some really popular varieties, and a lot of dogs enjoy Blue Buffalo wet food . Your dog should love eating; if whatever’s on the menu is just okay or your dog simply isn’t enthusiastic about it, you need to switch to food that your dog will love that also provides optimal nutritional content.

Stock Up on Delicious Treats

If you could ask your dog what would be the best way to celebrate National Dog Day, the answer would probably be treats. Choose some yummy but healthy treat options that your dog is going to enjoy. Pick out some dental treats that can help clean your dog’s teeth and freshen his or her breath. If your dog loves a treat challenge, pick out an extra large bone that will provide hours of chewing entertainment such as elk antlers with exposed marrow or a beef knee bone .

National Dog Day is the perfect day to do something for the dogs who need help while also setting aside some time to take great care of the special dog or dogs in your life. It’s a day when everybody should spend some time with their dogs and find a way to let them know how much they love being with them.