Something To Bark About
August 26 is just another day to most, but to Colleen Paige, it is so much more. Paige is the founder of National Dog Day, which falls on August 26. The holiday began in 2004. New York adopted it into legislation in 2013.
Paige’s passion for dogs began at an early age. When she was 10, her family became pet parents to “Sheltie.” From that day on, she was an animal advocate for life.
Not only has Paige founded NDD, but she has also founded various other holidays such as National Puppy Day, National Cat Day, National Wildlife Day, National Mutt Day, and many others. Her holidays focus on bringing attention to animals worldwide and encouraging the adoption of those facing hardships.
All Breeds Welcome
Along with NDD being a special day for Paige, she hopes it will also be a day of celebration. National Dog Day focuses on celebrating all dogs, no matter their breed or breeds. NDD does not believe that there should be a breed ban of any kind.
“Dogs should not have to lose their lives because of the atrocities they have been forced to endure at the hands of man”, says Colleen Paige.
If you are interested in adding a canine to your home, consider adoption first every time. There are dedicated pure breed rescues that will help make the perfect match to your dream breed while also saving a life.
“Millions of dogs are killed each year because they’re simply unwanted,” Paige points out.
While NDD encourages adoption, it also seeks to inform people interested in buying their dogs directly from breeders. When seeking out a breeder, ensure that you can verify their reputability. It is completely normal to ask for references from past customers.
A request to see the breeding facilities and proper licensing for the operation is also within reason. The ability to confirm that your breeder is legitimate helps prevent further supporting backyard breeders and puppy mills.
Time To Celebrate
There are never too many occasions to celebrate our pooches. In August alone, there were several holidays for pets including “Work like a dog day,“ on August 5, “International Cat Day,” on August 8, “National Check the Chip Day” on August 15, and “National Take Your Pet to the Vet Day,” on August 22.
National Dog Day is no exception to the rule. It is the perfect time to take part in various small activities that can make a difference.
That can include anything like volunteering your time at a local shelter to donating products to your local pet food bank. NDD is also a chance to wash your dog’s bed, scratch them a little extra and throw their ball a few more times. You can even a pet portrait of them to hang by your bed, and a portrait of you to hang by their bed!
If you do not currently own a dog, National Dog Day is the perfect time to consider adopting. A quick internet search will provide you local results for ease of adoption if you wish. No matter which pooch you choose, it is guaranteed to leave both of your tails wagging.
