Dog lovers all across the country are gearing up to celebrate National Dog Day on August 26th. This wonderful day of celebration was founded in 2004 by Colleen Paige, Pet & Family Lifestyle Expert and Animal Advocate. It was started to bring attention to the plight of animals everywhere and to remind Americans that dogs enrich their lives in so many ways.

To join in on the festivities this year, we have gathered 14 suggestions for ways you can show your appreciation not only for the dogs in your life, but for those dogs who have served in the military, on the police force, as therapy animals, and as rescuers. Of course, everyday is a reason to celebrate your own furbaby!

1. Add to your family

If you’ve been considering getting a dog or adding to your pack, look first at your local animal shelter or breed rescue organization. “Millions of dogs are killed each year because they're simply unwanted,” says Colleen. She encourages people to research the breed they’re interested in before adopting, and avoid buying from “puppy mills” or stores that sell puppies.

2. Post about dogs on social media

If you’re already in the habit of sharing about your own dog, find some posts about hero dogs and share them. Search out dog groups that promote adoption and join them.

3. Take a treat 

Make up goodie bags with chew toys and treats and deliver them to your local shelter and also to your police station for their canine units. Make sure the police know you’re grateful for the role service dogs play in keeping your community safe.

4. Read to kids

Local libraries love having people come in and read to youngsters. Choose a book or two about famous or not-so-famous dogs and read to the little ones in your neighborhood. Talk to them about being kind to animals and get them started as advocates while they’re still young.

5. Read to dogs

Believe it or not, dogs love being read to, also. Ask at the shelter if you can come in and sit by the kennels to read to the dogs. Lots of shelters now have programs where kids can read to the dogs there. It is not only good for the pups, but it helps the kids improve their reading skills, too!

Related Post: Puppy Talk 101 - How to Communicate with Your Pup

6. Hit the road

The end of August is a great time to set out on a weekend excursion with Fido. Most dogs love going for a ride in the car, and if that ride ends up at a lake, the beach, or a trailhead in the mountains, even better.

7. Volunteer with a rescue group

Maybe you can’t foster a dog in your home, but you can probably spend a few hours at your local pet store helping a group who is holding a pet adoption day. Offer to take the dogs out for a potty break or simply give another volunteer a chance to get up and stretch her legs.

8. Take your pup shopping

Dog-friendly stores are great places to take your dog. At places like Petsmart or Petco, you can even allow Fido to choose his own present. Chews, balls, and other toys are all right there at your furbaby’s level so he can pick one out on his own.

Related Post: New Puppy Checklist! 10 Must-Haves for Your New Puppy

9. Have a dog party

Since summer’s ending, it’s a great time to host a doggy pool party! Many dogs love to swim, and nothing’s more fun than a pool full of pups. Or meet your doggy friends at the closest dog park and hang out. Be sure to bring lots of water for those hot dog days of summer!

10. Join a Meetup group 

There are lots of dog-focused Meetup groups, some who target certain breeds, others who promote particular dog sports, and still more that encourage fellowship between members who live in a limited area. Whatever your individual preference is, there is probably a group near you, and if not, now is the perfect time to start one.

11. Visit a hospital or care center

People who are confined, like in hospitals or long-term care centers love to have visitors of the four-legged variety. If your dog is already a therapy dog, you’re already aware of the need. If not, this is the ideal day to look into it.

12. Donate

You can collect blankets, bowls, toys, and leashes or collars for donating to your local shelter. Of course, a money gift is also appreciated. The ASPCA and US War Dogs Association are two places that always need donations.

13. Give a special gift 

Unfortunately, if you’re like most dog lovers, you can’t spend every minute, every day with your beloved furbaby. When you need to be away, you can still be in constant communication with him with the Furbo Dog Camera, the ultimate communication device for dog owners. You can talk to him, toss him treats, and see what he’s up to, all from the convenience of your mobile phone. When he hears your voice, he’ll know he’s not alone and that you love him even when you’re not there in person!

Related Post: 5 Reasons Every Dog Needs a Furbo Dog Camera

14. Love ‘em

Your dog can’t read the calendar, so he won’t know that August 26th is National Dog Day. But spending extra time with him, giving her a massage or extra brushing, or a trip to the dog park can all be special anytime. The most important way you can celebrate is simple loving your best furbuddy and making sure he’s properly cared for.

Because any day that you spend time with your furbabies is a day that they will celebrate!

Related Post: 10 Ways to Show Love to Your Dog on National Pet Day