A black, brown, and white dogThe end of September is a time of transition in most households. In the hectic days that mark the shift from summer to fall activities, it’s easy to overlook our canine family members, who are likely feeling the stress of these busy days as much as we are. That’s where National Dog Week comes in!

National Dog week was founded in 1928 by Will Judy, decorated World War I veteran and longtime publisher of Dog World Magazine. Judy created National Dog Week as a means to educate and enlighten dog owners and their communities and as a tribute to the deep and ancient bond between human and dog.

Show your dog  and the dogs in your community how much you appreciate them by celebrating National Dog Week this year, September 20-26th.

Ways To Celebrate National Dog Week

There are countless ways to celebrate dogs during National Dog Week. Here are a few of our favorite ideas:

  • Organize a photo shoot for your dog. Ask a friend to snap a few smartphone pics of you and your pup or spring for a professional pet photographer to truly capture your dog’s unique personality and stunning good looks.
  • If your child’s school doesn’t already celebrate National Dog Week, try calling them up and making the suggestion. There are plenty of dog-related projects, lesson plans, and community involvement ideas available for kids of all ages.
  • If you’re in the mood for an adventure, grab your dog and hit the road for a day of exploration. There are a wide variety of pet-friendly locales to discover in Placer County, from dog parks to beaches to restaurants with dog-friendly patios.
  • Do you have a four-legged social butterfly on your hands? Invite friends and family (and their dogs, of course) over for a dog party. All you need is a bit of space, a few milk bones for the dogs and cookies for the people, and you’re ready to party.
  • Enjoy the beautiful Sierra Nevada September with your pooch while exploring one of the many dog friendly trails that our area has to offer. Not into hiking? Your dog will appreciate a good ol’ fashioned walk, just as long as the two of you are together.
  • Treat your best pal to a fancy new collar or a new toy or two, or three!
  • If you’ve been considering expanding your canine family, National Dog Week is the perfect opportunity to take the plunge. By adopting a shelter dog, you will not only be giving your pup a buddy, you’ll also be saving a life.
  • Even if adopting a dog isn’t in your immediate future, there are still countless ways you can volunteer to help the shelter animals in your community.

Don’t worry if you aren’t able to do something special during National Dog Week. A little bit of extra attention and snuggles this week will make your dog feel happy and loved, and that’s what National Dog Week is all about.