If there’s ever a time to show even more love and appreciation for your dog – this is it. Although it’s standard behaviour for most pet parents, today it’s socially expected to shower them with treats and praise.
From wilderness walks to homemade pupcakes, dog lovers across the UK are going the extra mile to ensure their pooches feel special and understand how much of a credit they are just by being around.
Whilst there is lots of fun to be had on this day, it also shares a serious message about responsible pet ownership. Dog adoption, safe treatment use, and keeping a closer eye on the care we offer our dogs is becoming increasingly important – and a campaign as well-known as National Dog Day ensures this reminder is nationwide.
What is National Dog Day?
Celebrated on August 26th every year, National Dog Day was created by pet advocate Colleen Paige to honour dogs for their companionship and loyalty, as well as to bring attention to the large number of dogs that need rescuing every year.
It raises awareness around the importance of adopting from animal shelters, whilst exposing opposite issues like puppy mills, breed-specific legislation, and animal cruelty.
The diversity and talent among the species deserves far more recognition than it currently receives. With service dogs enabling independence for disabled individuals, law enforcement dogs helping keep communities safe, and family pets brining joy to everyday life, the personal and societal contributions they make need to be acknowledged.
Ways to celebrate
Want to dedicate some time to National Dog Day? Here are some creative and practical ways to celebrate your little pooch.
At home spa day
Every dog deserves a pamper every once in a while, and with many pets now experiencing regular five-star treatments more akin to spa day experiences, this is easy to recreate at home.
We have a range of dog deodorants and a trio of fragrant balms which will leave your pet feeling clean, rejuvenated, and relaxed.
Grooming will keep your dog’s appearance in good condition, whilst helping their overall health through the early identification of pests and skin issues.
Go on an adventure
Dogs thrive on new experiences, and today is the perfect occasion to explore new places through countryside walks, woodland trails or beach runarounds. Even better, the fresh air and exercise will do wonders for both you and your pooch.
Make sure you take the necessary precautions and aftercare for fleas and ticks, particularly if the route has lots of grassy areas. These environments can attract some unwanted hitchhikers, so it’s important to have safeguards in place before your walk, such as a spot-on treatment, as well as checking their fur for pests after.
Playdate picnic in the park
If you have any dog-loving friends, now would be a good opportunity to ask them and their pups to go for a picnic in a dog-friendly park. You can both watch as they play and make new friends, whilst taking some time out for yourselves. Don’t forget to pack some dog treats in your basket, or they might be inclined to steal your food instead!
Make them a gourmet dinner
On the theme of food, you could whip up a fancy meal for your pup. There are plenty of dog-friendly recipes online to try, including homemade biscuits, meaty delights or even recreations of your own dinners – as long as they don’t contain harmful ingredients to dogs.
Although we used the term gourmet, preparations don’t have to be complicated. Any meal that isn’t their usual dry or wet food is likely to taste great to them.
Support dog adoption efforts
As we said earlier, a big part of what National Dog Day is about is to encourage the rescue of dogs and highlight the unethical breeding practices happening in the UK.
Even if you’re not currently a dog owner but you wish to celebrate, consider volunteering or donating to a local rescue organisation. There are lots of shelters that host adoption fairs or fundraising events on this day, offering you the chance to make a big difference to a dog’s life.
For those who are ready to expand their family, there are hundreds of rescue dogs waiting for a second chance at their forever home.
Responsible pet ownership
Being a responsible dog owner is more than love and cuddles. It means meeting your pet’s needs every day, including check-ups, a balanced diet, plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, and protecting them from health issues and ailments where possible.
The part of pet ownership that is particularly important to us and what we try to reflect in our products is responsible parasite control, which is why we are supporting NOAH’s ‘Use It Right, Treat Them Right’ campaign.
Aiming to protect people, pets and the environment, this campaign encourages pet owners to choose safe, approved treatments and follow the recommended guidance for their pets. Our entire range of flea and tick solutions are regulated by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate, giving you peace of mind that you can rid your pet and home of pests safely and securely.
What today means to us as pet care specialists
Johnson’s supports these awareness days to help improve the wellbeing of dogs across the UK by ensuring pet owners have access to the best care. From grooming essentials to veterinary strength flea and tick prevention, we’ve got everything you need to ensure your dog’s health and happiness – not just on National Dog Day, but every day of the year.
