When celebrated
Every year on August 26, the world celebrates International Dog Day. It is a real reminder to all owners and future owners of how important dogs are in our lives. On this day, the focus is not only on pets, but also on service, rescue and even stray animals. Each has a role to play, each deserves love and care.
History of origin
International Dog Day was founded in 2004 by American animal advocate Colleen Page. The date was chosen symbolically: it was on August 26 that she first brought home a dog from a shelter when she was only 10 years old. This event had such an impact on the girl’s life that, having grown up, she decided to devote herself to the fight for animal rights and created a whole series of thematic holidays – from Cat Day to Puppy Day. But it was Dog Day that became the most famous and spread far beyond the United States.
A few years after its creation, it was officially supported by animal protection organizations and even the legislative bodies of some states. Subsequently, the holiday became known in Europe, Asia and other continents. Today, August 26 is celebrated in dozens of countries, and in social networks on this day you can see millions of publications with photos of happy Tails.
Why this day is so important
International Dog Day reminds us that a dog is not a toy or a fashion accessory. It is a living creature with its own feelings, emotions and the right to live a dignified life. The holiday calls for dogs to be taken from shelters, as millions of animals are waiting for their owners every year. Also this day honors the work of service dogs: police dogs, rescue dogs, therapy dogs, guide dogs. Their devotion and labor save human lives every day.
Interestingly, according to statistics, it is in the days after the celebration of International Dog Day that the number of adopts in shelters increases significantly. People pick up the idea of doing a good deed and give homeless animals a new home.
Scientists believe that dogs were domesticated by humans more than 14 thousand years ago, and some archaeological finds indicate even more ancient period. They accompanied man in hunting, guarding, herding work and always stayed close to him, regardless of the conditions. Today, in addition to traditional roles, dogs also perform modern ones, such as helping to detect diseases, sensing changes in their owner’s health, warning of epilepsy attacks or even detecting cancer cells by smell.
Their devotion is so strong that it’s not uncommon to hear stories of dogs that stay by their owners’ side even after their death or wait for years. It is this kind of devotion that has earned the dog the honorable title of “man’s best friend”.
How it is celebrated around the world
In different countries, International Dog Day is celebrated in different ways, but everywhere it is filled with warmth and love. In big cities they organize festivals, exhibitions and contests for dogs, there are mobile veterinary offices where you can make a free examination or consultation. Charity fairs are often held, the proceeds of which go to support shelters. In schools and children’s centers, volunteers tell children about the right attitude to animals, fostering responsibility and kindness in the younger generation.
On the Internet this day turns into a real flash mob: users share photos of their pets with hashtags, publish stories about rescuing dogs, talk about their four-legged friends. In this way, a global wave of goodness is formed, which spreads the main idea – a dog deserves love, care and a safe life.
How to celebrate this day at home
Owners should do something special for their Tail. It can be a long walk on a new route, playing with other dogs, buying a new toy or a special treat. Some arrange a real holiday – photo shoots, costume shows, a trip to the grooming salon. For the dog it is a manifestation of attention, and for the owner – another opportunity to feel the joy of communication with the Faithful Friend.
But the celebration should not be limited to its own needs. On this day, it is especially valuable to do good for those who do not yet have an owner. It could be helping the shelter with food, toys, or finances. You can attend a volunteer event, walk homeless dogs, or at least spread the word about animals looking for homes. Sometimes even one repost can save a life.
International Dog Day is a reminder of true friendship, loyalty and love. Dogs are always with us: in joy and in difficult moments, they can understand without words the mood of the owner and give a feeling of warmth.
So let this year August 26 will be a day of gratitude to your pet. Give him more attention, give him new emotions, make a small miracle. And if you don’t have a dog yet, perhaps this day will be the day you decide to open your heart and home to a new family member.
