Celebrate your pups this International Dog Day!

Today (26 August) is International Dog Day, which is a celebration of all dogs around the world, and the companionship and loyalty they show to us.

Known as "man's best friend", the day is an opportunity to showcase what these animals do to keep us safe, guide us and bring us joy.

It is also an opportunity to raise awareness of the significance of adopting dogs, as there are so many that need a stable home and loving family.

History

International Dog Day was first established in 2004 by Colleen Paige, a pet and family lifestyle expert and an animal advocate. She created the day to mark the date she adopted her first dog, and to encourage others to adopt a dog, rather than buy from a pet store or breeder.

Since 2004, the Day has made waves across the world, with various countries and communities celebrating all dogs, whatever breed, size or personality. In 2013 the day was marked by New York legislation, and can now be seen on the New York State Senate's website.

As it grows in popularity, the Day serves as an opportunity for rescue centres and shelters to spread the word about the dogs in their care. It also allows us to reflect on the amazing things dogs can offer us, whilst drawing attention to the ongoing issues of puppy mills, dog fighting, and other forms of animal cruelty, advocating for better treatment and care for all dogs.

Dogs and wellbeing

Studies have shown that:

• pet owners are less likely to suffer from depression than those without pets;
• people with pets have lower blood pressure in stressful situations than those without pets;
• playing with a dog, cat or other pet can elevate levels of serotonin and dopamine, which calm and relax;
• pet owners have lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels, which are indicators of heart disease, than those without pets;
• heart attack patients with pets survive longer than those without;
• pet owners over 65-years-old made 30% fewer visits to the doctors than those without pets.

Caring for a pet can help our mental health and wellbeing in many ways, including:

• increasing your physical activity - dog owners are likely to take their pets for a walk or run every day, which is a fun way to fit exercise into your routine;
• providing companionship - pets can give you a sense of security and someone to share the day with, and caring for them can help you feel wanted and needed, which can especially help those who are feeling lonely;
• reducing anxiety - the companionship of a pet can help to ease your anxiety;
• boosting self-confidence - pets can be great listeners, offer unconditional love and will not criticise you, which can help self-confidence, especially if you feel isolated or misunderstood;
• helping you meet new people - dog owners often stop and chat with others on walks, but other pets can be a way to meet people too, in pet shops, training classes, or online communities;
• adding structure to your day - feeding, exercising and caring for a pet can help you keep to a daily routine, which can help you feel more grounded and focused, as well as giving your day a sense of purpose and achievement.

Pets may also help with specific conditions. For example, people with ADHD may benefit from the structure and routine that a pet needs:

• managing their pet's responsibilities and keeping track of time, to feed or walk them on time, for example, may help them in other areas of their lives;
• some people with ADHD are hyperactive, so playing with a pet can be a great way to release excess energy, whether that is walking a dog or playing with them.

Autistic people can also benefit from having a pet:

• pets provide the kind of unconditional relationships that can help someone build social skills and confidence;
• they can provide a sense of calm and reassurance if their owner feels overwhelmed;
• autistic children with sensory issues can involve their pets in sensory integration activities to help them get used to how something feels against their skin, or how it smells or sounds.

How to get involved

There are many ways to get involved on International Dog Day, including:

• visit your local dog shelter, to volunteer your time, donate toys, food or blankets;
• donating money to your local animal rescue or pet charity;
• spend time with your dog, and share the impact they have had on you on social media;
• if you can, spoil your dog with some treats, a new toy, or a different walk to what they are used to;
• if you are considering getting a dog, do your research and make sure you can be a responsible pet owner;
• choose pet products from companies that give back to animal welfare.