National Dog Day a Time for Celebration—and Concern

For those of us who have dogs, every day is a celebration of the special bond we share with our canine companions. With their wagging tails, goofy personality quirks and cute faces, who can blame us?

But we aren’t the only ones who feel this way. Did you know that in 2004, National Dog Day was established and is celebrated every year on Aug. 26? This special day has been set aside to show deep appreciation for the dogs that have come into our worlds and touched our hearts. This day honors the family dogs and service canines that work selflessly each day to save lives, offer love, ensure safety and bring comfort.

In addition, National Dog Day serves to generate public awareness about the many dogs in desperate need of rescue each year. Animal shelters and humane societies in this country are filled to the brim with lovable dogs in need of loving homes—each one with the potential to change your life, given the chance. 

National Dog Day recognizes the bravery and resilience of the countless shelter dogs throughout the world that find themselves in such an unfair situation. Being a shelter dog is a very tough reality for most pups to transition into. Oftentimes these dogs are devastated and heartbroken about not being with their families anymore and very confused by their new surroundings.

Despite the sincere efforts of animal rescue organizations, shelter environments are still very stressful places for dogs because of the anxiety and uncertainty they bring about. The heartbreaking reality is that every day, millions of these hopeful canines go without the love, security and companionship that our own pets are so fortunate to know. 

In addition to educating the public about this problem, National Dog Day also promotes awareness about how members of the community can proactively help address it. The disadvantaged dogs in our community and in our world shouldn’t be subjected to a life of uncertainty. It’s very much within our power to put an end to this problem. Here’s how you can help:

• Have your pet micro-chipped. In the event of an unintended separation, this feature makes it easy for you and your precious pet to be reunited. Most humane societies offer this service at an affordable price. 
• Commit to your pet for life. Anticipate future events that might affect your ability to care for a pet – such as starting a family or moving. Unfortunately, owner surrenders are a big reason pets end up in shelters. It’s an unfair and heartbreaking transition for them to go through. So before you bring a pet into your life, make sure it’s something you are willing and able to do forever. 
• Get your pet spayed or neutered. This measure is highly effective in helping to control the rising pet population.
• Support your local animal shelter or humane society. These organizations rely on their community’s support through financial contributions to provide food, shelter, medical care and love for the animals that so desperately need it. Remember, these organizations can’t carry out the life-saving work that they do without your help. Even if you can’t give a monetary donation, volunteering your time or adopting or fostering a pet to help out is just as valuable and appreciated. 

While Aug. 26 will forever commemorate the joys of canine companionship, it’s important to acknowledge that homeless dogs are in need of our help every single day of the year. When this special day passes, countless shelter dogs across the country will still be sitting there, waiting patiently in their kennels with their tails wagging and hope in their hearts. 

If the spirit of National Dog Day has affirmed your interest in bringing a pet into your life forever, check out your local humane society. Many rescue organizations feature adoption specials around this time of year.

In North San Diego County, the Escondido Humane Society is reducing dog adoption prices all day on National Dog Day. Adoption fees for all dogs will be reduced to $26 on Friday only.

Shelters across the county are full to the brim with dogs of all shapes, ages, sizes and personalities, so if you’re interested in adopting you’re bound to find the perfect match!