National Dog Week takes place annually over the last full week of September, which this year is the 22nd through the 28th. The week-long celebration of man’s best friend focuses on educating dog owners and the public, raising awareness about dog care, and helping lost, homeless, or abused dogs find homes.
This holiday is all about recognizing the responsibility of dog owners and the larger community as well as celebrating dogs.
How it Came to Be
National Dog Week was started by World War I veteran and canine advocate Captain William Lewis Judy in 1928, with the aim of educating pet owners and community members about the responsibilities of dog ownership at a time when dogs were primarily housed on chains in backyards. Upon returning from the war, William Judy acquired Dog World Magazine, which remains the oldest all-breed dog magazine in the country today. He continued to publish the magazine for more than 40 years!
Judy’s mission was to educate dog owners about caring for their dogs responsibly. He was a founder of the Dog Writers Association of America and believed a week long celebration in dogs’ honor was the least we could do to recognize the service and steadfast loyalty of our canine companions.
How to Celebrate
There are many ways to celebrate National Dog Week – and you don’t have to be a dog owner to get involved. So, let’s kick this off on the right paw!
If you have a dog:
- Take an extra 10 minutes out of your day to play with your dog.
- Spend a few extra minutes on a walk with your pup.
- Has it been a while since you took pics of your pup? Why not take some new ones? Or hire a pet photographer to do a photoshoot of your dog.
- Educate others on proper dog care. Consider asking your veterinarian or groomer to hold a virtual seminar on dog care, health, or grooming tips. Then invite all your dog-loving friends to attend.
- Consider adding to your family. Dogs are social creatures – this means they usually do better with other dogs, particularly if they are often home alone. If you have the ability, think about adopting another shelter pup.
If you don’t have a dog:
- Consider adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue organization. If you are not in a position to adopt, encourage a friend to adopt a dog in need of a loving home.
- Donate items to a local shelter: shelters rely on volunteers and donations.
- Spend a few hours volunteering at a local shelter.
- Offer to walk shelter dogs – they could use companionship and love.
- Bring a toy or biscuit to a friend’s dog.
However you celebrate this week, remember to do something special for your dog and for other dogs in your community. Our furry friends deserve recognition and some extra love not only this week, but all year round!
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Photo Credit: Daxiao Productions / Shutterstock.com