This National Dog Day: Lets Paws & Reflect!
The dog’s evolution into man’s best friend goes back at least 14,000 years (and probably longer), when they split from wolves to become more lovable, domesticated animals. Since then, the bond between people and pooches has transcended time and culture to become an integral part of humanity itself. So this National Dog Day, lets come together to celebrate one of the earth’s most adored and loyal creatures.
What is National Dog Day?
National Dog Day is celebrated on August 26th annually and was founded in 2004 by Pet & Family Lifestyle Expert and Animal Advocate, Colleen Paige, also the founder of National Puppy Day, National Cat Day and many more philanthropic days to bring attention to the plight of animals and to encourage adoption. The date of August 26th is significant, as it's the date that Colleen's family adopted her first dog "Sheltie" when Colleen was 10 years old.
National Dog Day celebrates all dogs, mixed breed and pure. Its mission is to help galvanize the public to recognize the number of dogs that need to be rescued each year and acknowledge family dogs and dogs that work selflessly each day to save lives, keep us safe, and bring comfort. Dogs put their lives on the line every day for personal protection, for law enforcement, for the disabled, for our freedom and safety by detecting bombs and drugs as well as by pulling victims of tragedy from wreckage. Now they're detecting cancer and seizures: things even humans cannot do!
This National Dog Day, we took a sneak peek into the lives of our QOL family’s dog moms and dads in order to find how each of their canine friends help improve their quality of life:
1) Matt’s Bella!
Matt simply adores his 4 year old Samoyed named Bella. He says she has improved his quality of life mainly by helping to keep him more active. He says, “It’s great to always have my best friend around, a cuddle buddy that cheers me up every single day when I get home.”
2) Caroline’s Critter!
Dogs always have a way of making one’s day. Their selfless love and affection knows no bounds. Caroline says, “Critter has improved my quality of life by always making me smile even on a dull day.”
3) Breanne’s Harley!
Breanne says, “Puppy world, meet Harley! She loves car rides and being outdoors. She makes going on walks more enjoyable because she loves smelling the fresh air and just being able to walk around the block with her mommy and sister. She loves giving kisses which makes her family very happy whenever they are in her presence.” She tells us that Harley has improved her quality of life by helping her be more active and on the go always.
This Chiweenie has our hearts!
4) Joe’s Luna!
As we all know, the German Shepherd is direct, fearless, and confident. It is an intelligent, easy to train, devoted, protective, and fun-loving breed. Joe says, “My wife and I have seen such an improvement in our quality of life since we got her because she is smart, fun, and is always keeping us busy. She is always there for us wagging her tail.”
5) Jessica’s Mason!
Jessica says “Deciding to rescue my dog Mason was one of the best decisions I've ever made! He has had such a positive effect on my quality of life - from exercising more to helping to get me out of bed in the morning - he has helped lift my mood, increased my energy, and has been a major factor in my recent resolution to lead a healthier lifestyle. Knowing that I will be bombarded with kisses when I come home each day also definitely puts a smile on my face! I'm looking forward to all of the fun adventures we have ahead of us.”
We wish her luck in this crazy roller coaster ride filled with loads of laughter, woofs, and yelps!
6) Jocelyn’s Parker!
When asked about her quality of life after getting Parker, Jocelyn excitedly says, “Every day I walk through the door and I am greeted with endless puppy kisses. Parker’s hyper and loving personality is contagious – I've become a happier and more energized person since getting him. Thank you Parker for being my best puppy friend.”
Isn’t this adorable?
7) Casey’s Snickerdoodle!
When asked to speak on National Dog Day, Casey beams reminiscently, “I got Snickerdoodle for my birthday when I was 10 and she has been my best friend ever since! She improves my life everyday just by being the most beautiful baby and she has held my family together over the years. She's the biggest spoiled brat you will ever meet, but that's why we love her!”
You make us all fall in love with her, Casey!
8) Alex’s Toby & Sierra!
Alex tells us about how his Jack Russell and Border Collie positively affect his quality of life, “They are my best friends. They always run and greet me when I get home after a long day at work. They have also taught me that food and playing ball are the most important things in the world.”
We’re so pleased to hear incredible stories of how these amazing animals have enhanced so many of our staff’s quality of life. This National Dog Day, lets come together to show our immense love and respect for these beautiful creations of nature. Feel free to share your lovely dog stories with us in the comments section below!
