National Rescue Dog Day 2024: May 20th and 6 Fun Ways to Celebrate

Sadly, millions of dogs end up homeless every year either due to being unwanted or their owners being unable to care for them. National rescue dog day encourages individuals to adopt dogs from shelters.

National Rescue Dog Day is celebrated on May 20^th every year. The observance of this important day acknowledges the numerous advantages of welcoming a furry friend into your life. Thus, the occasion presents a perfect chance to express gratitude towards these courageous creatures.

Keep reading to discover exciting information about National Rescue Dog Day.

History of the National Rescue Dog Day

According to the ASPCA, approximately 3.3 million dogs are taken to shelters annually. These dogs have often been abandoned or abused. National Rescue Dog Day is a reminder that all these dogs deserve a permanent home.

Lisa Wiehebrink is the founder of National Rescue Dog Day. She is also an author and the founder of Tails That Teach. Lisa’s work mainly focuses on the human-animal bond. She also believes that instilling values in children towards animals will help them become empathetic and compassionate adults.

The idea of introducing National Rescue Dog Day came to Lisa after she rescued her dog, Cooper, and other dogs in 2009. She aimed to raise awareness about the plight of shelter dogs.

Dogs living on the streets face many difficulties, including food shortages and lack of shelter and safety. Most experience maltreatment at the hands of humans.

Therefore, to help reduce the number of dogs in shelters, Lisa’s Foundation encourages people to adopt rescue dogs, volunteer at local shelters, and donate to organizations that support animal welfare.

6 Ways to Celebrate National Rescue Dog Day

National Rescue Dog Day is a special celebration of the love and care that rescue dogs bring into people’s lives. Whether you are a dog owner or simply want to support these amazing animals, you can choose from multiple methods to commemorate this occasion.

1. Provide your Pet with Extra Attention

Assuming you own an adopted dog, you can celebrate this day by showing him extra love and affection. Some ways to make your rescue dog happy might include rewarding him with treats, visiting a dog park, embarking on a lengthy stroll, purchasing new toys, or arranging a get-together with other rescue canines.

These activities make your dog feel special and create memorable experiences for both of you.

2. Consider Adoption

If you do not have a dog, National Rescue Dog Day is an excellent opportunity to consider adoption. There are millions of dogs waiting for their forever homes in shelters and organizations specializing in rescuing animals.

Adopting a needy dog means that you can give her another chance and provide her with the care that she is entitled to. Besides, acquiring a dog from a shelter is more affordable than purchasing one from a breeder.

3. Volunteer at a Shelter

Volunteering at an animal shelter is another way to celebrate National Rescue Dog Day. These organizations often rely on volunteers for general care, socialization and enrichment, and facility maintenance.

Volunteering at a shelter allows you to spend time with rescue dogs and positively impact their lives. You can also find a volunteer position that matches your skills and interests, such as creating social media content.

4. Spay or Neuter

You can also celebrate National Rescue Dog Day by neutering or spaying your dog. Overall, these surgeries reduce the population of stray and abandoned animals. With fewer strays, needy dogs can better utilize shelters.

5. Donate to Shelters

One way to contribute is by donating to a nearby rescue dog organization. Donations are relied upon by shelters to buy food, supplies, and medical care for the dogs in their care.

Dogs arrive at shelters in various conditions; before they can be adopted out, some rescue dogs require significant medical care and rehabilitation. The cost of veterinary bills can accumulate rapidly. Hence, donations are always welcomed.

6. Raise Awareness About Rescue Dogs

Spreading the word about rescue dogs is another way to make a difference. As people realize the uniqueness of rescue dogs, more needy pups can find their permanent homes with loving families.

National Rescue Dog Day presents a great chance to talk to your loved ones about adopting a dog. You can also raise awareness through social media.

Reasons to Adopt a Rescue Dog

Animal welfare assistant for Blue Cross Tiverton, Lauren Chilton, suggests that dog adoption is a great choice for individuals contemplating pet ownership. While buying a dog from a reputable breeder may be tempting, adopting a dog can save a life and provide plenty of rewards.

Moreover, those who have adopted a needy dog are more likely to do it again. As per Dogs Trust, those who have adopted a needy dog often find the experience valuable and are likely to consider adopting another one.

Here are some reasons why adopting rescue dogs on National Rescue Dog Day is advantageous:

It’s a Satisfying Activity to Engage in

Providing another chance for a dog that was unwanted or mistreated in the past can be an enriching and fulfilling experience. Additionally, by adopting a dog from a shelter, people are avoiding backstreet breeders.

Different Variety

In rescue centers, you will likely encounter dogs of all sizes, shapes, and ages. You will match with specific dogs and be assessed based on your needs.

You can talk with the canine caregivers who know the dogs well. They can provide you with a comprehensive character profile of each dog, including their preferences and aversions, simplifying the decision-making process.

Building a Lifelong Friendship

Dog ownership can have significant advantages for humans. An adopted dog will repay your kindness and patience with loyalty and friendship.

Valuable Life Lessons to Impart to Kids

Having an adopted dog as a pet can teach your kids some crucial life lessons, including responsibility, respect for animals, and the significance of caring for innocent creatures.

Receiving Guidance in Caring for Your Dog

When you adopt a dog from a reputable shelter, you can count on receiving support for your new pet and yourself. Such support can come in expert advice, training, and assistance, even after you take your dog home.

Do Rescue Dogs Make Great Pets?

Rescue dogs are a fantastic addition to any home, and there are many reasons why they make the best pets.

Here are some reasons why you may want to adopt a rescue dog on National Rescue Dog Day:

• They are grateful: The bond between an adopted dog and its owner is often quite strong. Rescue pups are always eager to please because they know they have been saved, and they show appreciation every day.
• They are less expensive: Purebred dogs often come with a high price tag, but rescue dogs are typically much less expensive to adopt.
• These dogs sometimes come trained: Many rescue dogs are already somewhat trained and have good behaviors learned from previous owners or shelter staff.
• Rescue dogs come with a built-in community: Adopting a needy dog means joining a community of like-minded individuals who love dogs. Many adopters become advocates and volunteers for rescue dogs, creating a supportive network.
• They can be a perfect match: Rescue dogs have an adoption profile. This helps adopters find a dog that perfectly matches their lifestyle and family.
• Rescue dogs give an emotional boost: These dogs provide companionship and give their owners a sense of purpose and pride. Knowing that you have saved a life can boost your emotional well-being.

Why We Love National Rescue Dog Day

Dogs are widely celebrated for their loyalty, friendly nature, and unconditional love. But there are even more reasons to celebrate shelter dogs and their significance in our lives.

• The celebration of dogs is a reminder to foster friendship between humans and animals. We learn to develop patience, understanding, and compassion by embracing animals as friends. Dogs, in particular, have a remarkable ability to connect with humans.
• Celebrating dogs highlights the importance of empathy. In a world where kindness and understanding are often lacking, dogs remind us of the value of compassion and selflessness. Therefore, being there for a needy dog through adoption, fostering, and volunteering helps improve their emotional well-being.
• Celebrating dogs is a call to appreciate their unique qualities and the value they bring to our lives. It is an opportunity to foster animal-human friendship.