August is a big month for cats and dogs everywhere. Assistance Dog Week, International Cat Day and National Dog Day are some examples.
Celebrate and enjoy some special days with your cat and dog friends!
Weekly Celebrations
August 4- 10: International Assistance Dog Week
International Assistance Dog Week (IADW) is to recognize “all the devoted, hardworking assistance dogs helping individuals mitigate their disability related limitations.”
The goals of IADW include:
- Recognize and honor assistance dogs
- Raise awareness and educate the public about assistance dogs
- Honor puppy raisers and trainers
- Recognize heroic deeds performed by assistance dogs in our communities
Daily Celebrations
August 8: International Cat Day
We love our cats! Almost 4,000 years ago, humans domesticated cats by keeping them near the food source. (And they controlled vermin and other pests.)
The International Fund for Animal Welfare created International Cat Day in 2002 to “celebrate one of humanity’s most ancient pets.”
August 15: National Check the Chip Day
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) created National Check the Chip Day to remind pet parents to microchip their pets.
Two good reasons for National Check the Chip Day:
- Microchipping improves the chances of finding a lost or stolen family pet.
- A pet parent reminder to update their information in the microchip database.
August 22: National Bring Your Cat to the Vet Day
This day stands out as a pet parent reminder to schedule our cat’s annual check up. Visit the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) for flyers, infographics and brochures to help you prepare for your pet’s veterinary visit.
The site also has some tips to reduce stress for you and your cat.
August 26: National Dog Day
Dog pet parents can celebrate National Dog Day with a big hug and kiss for their furry pets. Read about other ways to celebrate:
- Adopt a dog from a local rescue or breed rescue organization.
- Volunteer to walk a dog, clean pens or read to dogs in a rescue or shelter facility.
- Write to your congress member and ask them to support a ban on puppy mills and gas chambers.
- Help an older neighbor by walking their dog today.
- Teach your dog a new trick.
- Give your pet a massage after a fun day of exercise.
Thanks for stopping by!
Dr. Pet Mom
“Animals are nothing but the portrayal of our virtues and vices made manifest to our eyes, the visible reflections of our souls.” ~~Victor Hugo