From Treats To Tributes — Ways To Celebrate Your Furry Friends News24 –
International Dog Day 2025: There has recently been a lot of discussion around dogs in India. While the issue primarily pertains to stray dogs, dogs are dogs, and when we talk about them, there should not be any such classification. The bond between humans and dogs has always been described as one of friendship that is pure and full of love. There are countless dog owners around the world who lovingly refer to their pet dogs as members of the family. Dogs have been described as creatures who have the power to brighten even our worst days with their wagging tails and adorable gestures. A reel featuring puppies or dogs is enough to melt anyone’s hearts and particularly of Gen Z’s.
If we look at textbooks, dogs are referred to as the oldest “companions” of humans. People often show their love for their dogs by sharing videos and photos. Well, if you have a dog and want to express your love or them, today is the perfect day to do so. International Dog Day, observed worldwide on August 26, is a special occasion to celebrate our canine friends and raise awareness about their needs.
International Dog Day 2025: History
International Dog Day was first celebrated in 2004 by animal lover and pet expert Colleen Paige. She chose August 26 because it was the day her family adopted their first dog, Sheltie, from a local shelter. Colleen was just 10 years old at the time.
The day was officially recognised in 2013 by the New York State Legislature. Its goal is to raise awareness about the need to rescue dogs from poor or unsafe living conditions. Along with promoting dog adoption, International Dog Day also celebrates all dog breeds. International Dog Day aims to strengthen human-dog bond.
International Dog Day 2025: Ways To Celebrate Your Furry Friend
If you have a dog and want to celebrate this day here are few things that you can do:
Go on an Adventure
Take your dog to a new trail, park, beach, or even dog-friendly cafe.
Throw a Dog Party
Invite your friends who own pet dog over for a mini dog party with treats, toys, and playtime.
Bake Homemade Dog Treats
Make healthy treats using dog-safe ingredients like peanut butter, pumpkin, and oats.
Pamper Your Puppy
Treat your dog to a spa day: a good bath, brushing, nail trimming, and maybe a new bandana or collar.
New Toy or Gear
Buy a new toy, bed, leash, or enrichment game to keep them entertained.
Photo Shoot
Have a cute photo session and share on social media with hashtags like #InternationalDogDay or #DogDay.
If you don’t have a dog but love them, here are things that you can do mark this day:
Volunteer at a Shelter
Donate to a Dog Shelter or Rescue Group
Contribute food, money, toys, or supplies to your local shelter.
Support Dog-Related Causes
Share awareness about dog adoption, abuse prevention, or breed-specific legislation.
Sponsor a Dog
Some shelters allow you to sponsor a dog and help cover their care costs.
As, we are generation that is hooked to online postings and social media gimmicks, here are some fun online ideas that you can try to celebrate this day:
Post a Tribute
Share your dog’s story or a memory of a dog you loved.
Watch Dog Movies or Shows.