Dogs are amazing creatures. You’ve probably already heard that August 26th is National Dog Day, and you’re no doubt planning to celebrate it with your furry friend, but did you know that the holiday has actually been in existence since 2004? It’s easy to see why this day has become such a popular celebration among dog owners – if you love your dog, what could be more fun than celebrating together on National Dog Day? From pugs to dachshunds, pit bulls to poodles, we’re all aware of the unique personalities these pets possess and how much they mean to us.    

History of National Dog Day

First established in 2004 by pet advocate and family lifestyle expert, Colleen Paige, this day serves to raise awareness of the needs to adopt our four legged friends. Aug 26 was a special day for her as it was when she adopted her sheltie as a child. In 2013, the holiday was written into the NY Legislation. Colleen not only founded National Dog Day but also other holidays such as National Puppy Day, National Mutt Day and National Cat Day.  

What is the purpose of National Dog Day?

National dog day isn't just a day to celebrate your pet. The mission of National Dog Day is to help bring public awareness 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. From personal protection, for law enforcement, for the disabled, safety by detecting bombs and drugs and pulling victims of tragedy from wreckage, dogs are invaluable creatures that enrich our lives every day.  

Ways to a celebrate National Dog Day: Support your local animal shelter!

For the past 20 years, I am a big proponent of supporting animal organizations and rescues. Animals of all types need the kindness and compassion of humans.  My first experience working with a shelter was when I was 20 while still in the Navy. Located at Paws of Bremerton in Washington   my job was to clean cages and provide social interactions with cats. As a result, I adopted what I never thought I would own: a cat. Georgie lived with me for 19 years! Although she passed in 2016, she was my first beloved pet. We moved coast to coast, from Seattle to Florida. Back to my home state of Arizona and then her final resting place in San Diego where she passed peacefully in our backyard.

In addition, my daughter volunteered at Helen Woodward Animal Center after struggling with anxiety that lead her to leave college. I wanted her in a calm place that soothed her soul. During COVID, her time at the center allowed her to stay active and involved with the community. During the time at Helen Woodward Animal Shelter located in Rancho Santa Fe, CA, she learned the importance of having heart for all types of animals. She worked in the cat room as well as walked dogs to ensure they were exercised and stimulated. From the beginning, I was impressed with the large range of services they provide to the community such as adoptions, meals for homeless pets, boarding, workshops for shelters, pet hospital, educational outreach, equine hospital, and pet therapy. As a adult with Autism, I was deeply grateful for supportive staff, training and opportunity to gain hands on learning to develop work experience while volunteering with adoptions and boarding. The love of animals runs strong as our family legacy. In 1996, my favorite aunt, Michelle Walton, was a founding member of Riverside Shelter Volunteer Program in New York by actively walking dogs, providing enrichment socialization, and promoting adoptions.  Later DBA as RSVP inc, this organization is dedicated to improving lives of companion animals while enhancing the communities in which they live by providing low-cost and free spay/neuter assistance, rescue & adoption services, pet care education and continued oversight and support as needed for responsible pet ownership. From conversations with her over the years, I know she adored the work of rescuing and helping animals.  Although her passing in 2017 saddened me, her legacy and her heart inspires me. She was my greatest family roll model.  Today - Canine Crazies has offered donation puppy baskets to important organizations such as The San Diego Zoo and Amazing Strays Rescues for their fundraisers. If you donate to your local animal shelter, volunteer or even adopt a dog, by supporting your local animal shelter, you are saving lives for all of our four legged friends.  

How Canine Crazies is honoring National Dog Day

Here at Canine Crazies, we love dogs of all shapes and sizes. No matter the age, breed, temperament or personality, dogs being us joy, laughter, happiness and love. To celebrate our love for our four legged friends, we will be showcase 100 Days of Dogs: a dog blog series of the top favorite breeds!  

Wanna chat Live about dogs?

Come join Canine Crazies and my pack of dog friendly friends on Facebook at Canine Crazies in the Den. Let's bond, connect, laugh and share the love of our four legged friends.