-->“Dogs are not our whole life,
But they make our lives whole.”

Roger Caras

Music: Who Let The Dogs Out?

On Tuesday, we celebrate ‘National Dog Day’
To honor the dogs who have touched our lives
To remember, all that dogs do for us, everyday
To help homeless dogs, who are filled with strife

This holiday was started by The National Dog Day Foundation
To honor all of the many dogs, that work for our benefit everyday
To honor the work of Search and Rescue and Bomb Sniffing Dogs
To honor all our family pets, who enrich our lives, in so many ways

On Tuesday, my wife and I will host a Dog Day Party for several dogs
With a backyard gala, filled with swimming, games, and canine treats
We are also asking everyone to adopt a homeless dog from a shelter
There are so many dogs in need of a friend, that today you can meet

5 Ways to Celebrate National Dog Day

1. Spoil Your Dog – Your dog deserves a day of fun on this holiday. A trip to his/her favorite dog park, special dog treats, a backyard party, or extra play time are always good ways to celebrate. A trip to the pet store to purchase a new toy and perhaps a picnic afterwards can also end a great day for our best friends.

2. Adopt A Dog – If you have been thinking about adding a dog to your home, as a second or a third companion, why not adopt one from a local animal shelter – America’s shelters are all now sadly overflowing with homeless dogs in need of a second chance.

3. Upgrade Your Dog’s Things – A new pet bed, switching to a higher quality dog food, a new leash and collar, and perhaps a new car harness or carrier might be in order. If your faithful old dog likes to sleep in bed with you, but has a hard time jumping up on it these days, it could be time to invest in some doggy steps.

4. Support Animal Welfare Groups – These are both local and national groups that strive to increase awareness about America’s horrendous puppy mills, about dogs who are victims of neglect and abuse, and who work to change our laws to protect pets in need of our support. Take the time to sign their pledges, to donate a few dollars to them, and to make a promise to yourself to always include your dog as a true member of your family.

5. Volunteer – Check out your local animal shelters and rescue groups, and volunteer some of your time. Dogs in shelters need walks and play time, every day. You can help keep a shelter dog happy and socialized by volunteering a few hours a month to them. If you have old blankets, pillows, or gently used dog toys that your dog doesn’t need anymore, donate them to your local rescue group or animal shelter. And if you have room in your home and heart, please consider becoming a foster parent to a homeless dog – there are so many of them out there today who truly need our help.

How Will You Be Celebrating National Dog Day This Year?

©August 2014, Mr. Ed