As it was International Cat Day on August 8th, it’s only right we celebrate International Dog Day too, marked annually on August 26th! It’s a worldwide celebration dedicated to honouring our beloved canine companions! This special day serves as a reminder to appreciate the unconditional love, loyalty, and joy that dogs bring into our lives. As we come together to celebrate these furry friends, we’ll delve into the significance of International Dog Day, explore the history behind it, and take a look at the different ways we can celebrate this paws-itively delightful occasion!
The Origin Story…
International Dog Day was founded in 2004 by Colleen Paige, an animal advocate, pet lifestyle expert, and author. Paige's vision was to create a day that not only celebrates the bond between humans and dogs but also raises awareness about the countless dogs around the world in need of rescue and adoption. By dedicating a day to our four-legged friends, she aimed to foster a greater understanding of the importance of responsible pet ownership, animal welfare, and the role that dogs play in our lives.
But Why Do We Have an International Dog Day? (Why Not?)
Beyond being a day of joy and celebration, International Dog Day carries a deeper purpose. It serves as a platform to promote the welfare of dogs, both domestic and stray, and encourages responsible pet ownership. The day also emphasises the importance of adopting dogs from shelters and rescues, highlighting the countless furry companions awaiting loving homes.
So, let’s celebrate!
Spend some quality time with your dog by doing activities they love; whether it's a long walk, a game of fetch, or simply cuddling on the couch, cherish the moments you share with your furry friend!
If you really want to celebrate the day with some paw-zazz, you could host or participate in a dog-friendly event in your local community. This could be a pet parade, a doggy playdate at a local park, or even a fundraising event for a nearby animal shelter. Bringing dog lovers together will encourage a sense of community and highlight the joy that dogs bring to our lives.
Supporting your local animal shelters and rescue organisations is a brilliant way to celebrate as such places operate on limited budgets. Consider donating, volunteering your time, or organising a fundraiser to support these organisations in their mission to care for and rehome dogs in need.
Sharing is Caring
You can also use International Dog Day as an opportunity to offer advice and educate others about responsible pet ownership, such as the importance of spaying and neutering, and the benefits of adopting from shelters. Advocate for the well-being of dogs by sharing awareness about animal cruelty and neglect.
Another way you might like to share this International Dog Day is by signing up to Borrow My Doggy; a growing online platform that connects dog owners with dog lovers who want to spend time with a furry friend!
Borrow My Doggy aims to assist with dog borrowing arrangements, allowing individuals to safely connect based on mutual interests and preferences. The platform operates on a subscription-based model, where both dog owners and borrowers pay a fee to use the platform's services.
As a borrower you can create a profile and set preferences, whilst owners can create profiles for their dog that outlines any specific needs and the type of support they as the owner may need, such as dog walking/sitting or simply companionship for their pooch whilst they’re unable to be at home.
So, if you’re not quite in a position to get yourself a dog, or you’re looking for another human friend for your own dog, then Borrow My dog might just be the answer you’re looking for.
Adopt, Don't Shop
If you’re considering getting your first dog, or expanding your furry family, International Dog Day is the perfect time to visit local animal shelters or rescue organisations. Adopting a dog not only gives a deserving pet a second chance at a happy life, but also helps reduce the population of stray and abandoned animals.
Do your research though! Getting a pet requires careful consideration and preparation as different breeds have different requirements, so ensuring they can easily fit into your lifestyle is important, as well as understanding the long-term financial commitment associated with pet ownership.
If you live in Birmingham, UK check out https://birminghamdogshome.org.uk/
and meet your new best friend!
Most Importantly, Capture Memories
We all love capturing our pets on camera, so make sure to take extra pics or videos of your canine companions on International Dogs Day, and share your favourite moments on social media with the hashtag #InternationalDogDay to join the global celebration!
One popular way we capture memories and mark our unconditional love for our pooches is through tattoos. They’re a really popular and meaningful way to memorialise our beloved animals, and express the deep bond between humans and pets.
At KTREW Tattoo we’re celebrating International Dog Day by sharing 10 of our top dog tattoos which have been created right here at the studio…
1.This wholesome tattoo was a tribute Georgia had done for her little Westie dog, Kristoff, and what a beautiful tribute it is too!
2. Just looking at this chilled dog makes me feel more relaxed. What a beautiful tattoo done for Isobel of her peaceful pup, Winston.
3. This handsome chap is Angus, tattooed for Jess. We love this continuous line style of tattoo; the results are always so visually pleasing.
4. Ted is Megan’s bestie, and this hand-poked tattoo portrait done of him really shows Ted’s most disarming feature; his cuteness.
5. Great Pyrenees dogs may have long, doubly-thick coats, but even these hardy pups can benefit from extra layers in the cold weather. Such as this cosy canine, done using machine and hand-poked methods.
6. Many believe that Casper’s the friendliest ghost, but that’s only because they haven’t come across Dogghost before. You could never be frightened of this little guy, right?
7. This little guy was Jane’s first tattoo, and it was of her pug, Arthur. This minimalistic style is so crisp and clean, and perfectly embodies Arthurs spirit!
8. As the saying goes; “you wear your heart on your sleeve”, but not for Joanne, who wears her heart on her back because true friends always have your back… we’re all over the idioms here. Such a cute fine-line tattoo!
9. Sausages! Specifically, Chorizo. That’s the name of this charming little dog. It’s the personal details we love the most about these tattoos, like the bow ties Chorizo wears, they make each tattoo extra special and personal.
10. Technically, this is a toy dog, but it’s a dog nonetheless and we think this teddy is adorable. This is Madison’s childhood bear, Charlie, and what a lovely tribute for a beloved companion.
Before getting a pet tattoo, it's important to carefully consider the design, placement, and size – these are all factors your tattoo artist can help you with to ensure that the tattoo accurately reflects the emotions and cherished memories of your pet.
It’s always good to know what style you’d like the tattoo to be in – fine-line, abstract, realistic – because by knowing this it will help you to find the right tattoo artist for the job.
To see more work by the KTREW Tattoo artists, you can check out their socials here: @kirstietrew @pokeyhontastattoo
International Dog Day is a wonderful occasion to celebrate the special bond between humans and dogs. Whether you're a dog owner, aspiring pet parent, or simply a dog enthusiast, there are so many ways to participate in this heart-warming celebration.
By embracing the joy, love, and companionship that dogs bring into our lives, we’re not only honouring our furry friends but also contributing to a world where every dog is treated with the care and respect they deserve. So, on August 26th, let's celebrate our canine companions and make a positive impact on the lives of dogs around the globe!
If one of the ways you’re celebrating International Dog Day is with a tattoo, then why not drop us an email to info@ktrewtattoo.com or send us an enquiry using our booking form.
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