5 Ways to Celebrate National Dog Day

National Dog Day is on Fri., Aug. 26. Founded by an animal advocate in 2004, National Dog Day celebrates dogs of all ages, sizes and breeds. Whether you’re looking for a fun way to celebrate with your dog or you’re interested in adopting a new family member, here are a few ideas to help you make the most of National Dog Day …

5. Make a fun new toy.

Everyone loves spoiling their pooch by buying them the best food, treats, accessories and toys, but making a toy for your furry friend can be just as enjoyable! Toys are a fun way to help your dog get the exercise that is so important to keep them healthy. As vital as physical activities are for dogs, mental exercise is just as important. Enrichment is a form of playtime designed to work out your dog’s mind along with their body. Why not celebrate National Dog Day by making a fun enrichment toy for your favorite four-legged buddy? Here are some ideas to get you started!

4. Explore a new part of town.

Do you ever get the bug to explore a new place because you’re doggone tired of the “same old, same old?” Your dog feels the same way! Break out of the routine of the same walking route everyday by taking your pup somewhere new. There are plenty of parks and hiking trails that your dog would love to help you explore! If you’re not sure where to start, try hitting the trail with some fellow dog lovers.

3. Play in the sprinkler.

Although summer may be winding down, the hot weather hasn’t quite called it quits for the year. Running through the sprinkler isn’t just fun for humans! Try rewarding your best friend on National Dog Day by creating your own backyard water park to help cool them down on a warm August afternoon. Your dog will love chasing the water and you’ll get plenty of entertainment watching all the fun! Check out some other ways to beat the heat with your pet before fall arrives.

2. Eat at a dog-friendly restaurant.

More and more restaurants are inviting customers to bring their dogs along while they eat and drink with friends. Show your pup that they’re part of the family by choosing one of these dog-friendly restaurants in Pittsburgh if you plan on dining out on National Dog Day. You won’t have to worry about leaving your furry friend at home and many of these eateries even offer special menu items for pooches!

1. Adopt!

What better way to celebrate National Dog Day than by giving a home to a dog that doesn’t have one? There are so many at Animal Friends right now who are patiently waiting for their new family to come and give them the loving home they deserve! To help you and your perfect pup find each other, Animal Friends is celebrating National Dog day with a one-day adoption special. Come in on Fri., Aug. 26 to adopt a dog 2-years or older and you’ll receive $25 off the requested adoption donation! Click here to meet the dogs that are available for adoption right now at Animal Friends.

There are plenty of ways to help raise awareness on National Dog Day, plus it’s the perfect excuse to spoil your pup (not that you don’t do that anyway). Whether you’re adopting or just enjoying the day with your furry friend, be sure to snap a selfie and tag Animal Friends on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!