The 26th of August is International Dog Day: a time to celebrate our best friends and their fun-loving nature. For everything dogs give us (their affection, company and protection), they deserve the happiest of days. Here’s how you can make it special.
Adopt, don’t shop
Is someone you know looking for a dog? Suggest they adopt from an animal shelter. So many dogs are longing for a home, and not just puppies. Senior dogs also make great companions, they’re calmer and very often socialised.
Let them eat ‘cake’
Today deserves treats, whether it’s their usual favourites or those new dog biscuits you’ve been saving for a special occasion. Need ideas? Our canine friends love Lily’s Kitchen, Burns, Edgard & Cooper and Forthglade (and we love that they’re all made with natural ingredients). Just make sure you don’t overdo them – we know those puppy eyes are hard to resist!
Paws for a cause
Donate food, toys, blankets or bedding to your local dog charity. Giving your dog’s pre-loved items a second home is a great feeling. So is knowing they will make other pups very happy.
Go out of your way
Take them somewhere unexpected. Go on a hike so you can get some quality time together and they can sniff away to their heart’s content. Or take them to their favourite park and play fetch for just that little longer.
A dream come true
Is your dog’s bed worse for wear? Then give them the gift of a good night’s sleep. These days there are as many dog beds as there are dog breeds. There’s tweed, memory foam, orthopaedic… And with patterns so beautiful and elegant they almost look like design pieces!
A little pet pampering
Treating your dog to a spa treatment at home is fun, inexpensive and will leave your furry pal feeling great. This can mean anything from a head massage to a doggy ‘mani-pedi’. Of course, you can also go for the full package of brushing, bath and a doggy beer.
The more, the merrier
If you have elderly neighbours with dogs, you could try asking if theirs need a walk. Not only will you be doing them a favour, it could also be the start of a beautiful friendship – whether human and/or canine!
Of course, sometimes simple is best, so you may want to give all the above a miss and simply give your pooch a good cuddle and some extra attention. At the end of the day, all your dog really wants is you.
