International Dog Day is being held again in 2024 for its 20th anniversary — with pooches of all shapes and sizes being celebrated.
Social media is set to be abuzz with owners showing off their dogs, but the occasion also highlights less fortunate canines to find them a home.
Organisers of the day have compiled a list of 20 ways to celebrate, including adopting a dog and donating blankets to your local rescue centre.
Dog days are far from over, then, so here is all you need to know about the event this year.
What is International Dog Day?
The day was established in 2004 by animal advocate and pet and family lifestyle expert Colleen Paige — who also founded International Cat Day for good measure.
The aim is to raise awareness about the number of dogs in rescue centres and encourage their adoption, according to the official website.
The day also highlights the contributions of working dogs, such as those in the military, police, and service roles, and advocates improved conditions and rights for dogs worldwide. People celebrate by spending time with their dogs, volunteering at shelters, donating to animal charities, or raising awareness about dog-related issues.
Animal rights charity, the International Organisation for Animal Protection (OIPA), says: “[It is a] special day to raise awareness about dog adoption because, if you are looking for a life’s companion, shelters are full of four-legged friends who are waiting for their chance and will bring just happiness to your days.”
Ms Paige’s website lists many other days dedicated to different kinds of dogs (National Mutt Day is on December 2, if you are interested).
“Colleen’s lifesaving mission to create holidays such as National Dog Day, National Cat Day, and National Puppy Day, have not only helped to save millions of unwanted pets since 2004, but the social media buzz is practically palpable,” the website says.
When is International Dog Day 2024?
International Dog Day 2024 is on Monday, August 26.
This will be a summer bank holiday in the UK, meaning you may even get a day off to share with your four-legged friend.
Ms Paige decided August 26 would be the designated day because this was when her family adopted her first dog when she was 10.
