Have you hugged your dog lately? You might also want to give your furry friend extra belly rubs too just to show how much you appreciate them—especially since today is National Dog Day!
This canine holiday was founded in 2004 by animal expert and advocate Colleen Paige, along with National Puppy Day (March 23) and National Mutt Day (December 2). National Dog Day was created to not only honor dogs and show how much they mean to us and the important role they play in our lives, but to also bring awareness to the countless abused and homeless dogs needing adoption. The August 26 date was chosen by Colleen Paige as National Dog Day because that was the day that her family brought home their first dog. The goal of the National Dog Day Foundation is to rescue 10,000 dogs daily.
There are more than 90 million dogs in the United States and probably three times that number of Americans who love them. Life Magazine recently republished a special edition devoted entirely to dogs, titled “LIFE Dogs: Why We Need Them. Why They Need Us” featuring photos articles about the wonderful qualities of dogs.
Man’s best friend has always been at the forefront of our lives.
Dogs have delighted us on iconic television shows and movies such as Lassie, The Adventures of Rin Tin Tin, Scooby-Doo, Snoopy and Deputy Dawg, among others. More importantly, dogs provide unconditional love and are a guiding force for the disabled and help protect and serve our police and military. Studies have also shown that dogs provide emotional therapy and bonding with them can help make us happy and even healthier.
Whether you are a dog owner or plan to become one soon, keeping your dog safe and healthy is all part of being a responsible pet owner.
Keep Your Dog Safe From the Heat!
With the blazing summer heat upon us, pet owners should be mindful of their dog’s paws when taking them for a walk. Concrete and asphalt surfaces can exceed 120 degrees and can burn and blister the pads of your dog’s feet. Using paw wax and protective dog booties can help along with walking your dog early in the morning or mid-evening when it’s cooler.
While it is important that your pooch eats well and has a nice, safe place to sleep, they also need to be healthy. Get them checked and vaccinated regularly by a licensed veterinarian. National Dog Day is a good reminder to have your pet examined!
To verify the license of a veterinarian, visit the Department of Consumer Affairs’ License Verification page, or the Veterinary Medical Board of California‘s website.
