In a world where countless rescue dogs are waiting for a chance to live happily, National Rescue Dog Day allows us to use the power we hold to make a difference in pets’ lives.
National Rescue Dog is celebrated yearly on May 20, aiming solely for the recognition and adoption of rescued canines. However, that is not all.
Whether through adoption or fostering, volunteering at a local shelter, donating to rescue organizations, spreading awareness, or supporting legislation, you can positively impact rescued dog’s life in numerous ways.
Read more to find out what makes national rescue dog day special.
History of National Rescue Dog Day
National Rescue Dog Day was started by Tails That Teach on May 20, 2018, by Lisa Wiehebrink. It has been celebrated yearly since then by animal lovers, rescue organizations, and all the related authorities.
National Rescue Dog Day was mainly formed to address the issues of overpopulation, stereotypes, and euthanasia rescue dogs often face.
Therefore, this occasion helps to shed light on the hardships faced by rescue dogs, promote adoption, challenge stereotypes, and ultimately improve the lives of these deserving animals.
Top Ways to Contribute to National Rescue Dog Day
Here is how you can help to provide rescue dogs with a forever and loving home.
1. Adopt or Foster a Rescue Dog
Rescue dogs may have past trauma, neglect, and negative life experiences.
Opening your heart to a rescue dog can bring immense joy to your life while making a meaningful difference in the canine’s life.
Did you know out of 6.3 million rescue animals, 810,000 are fortunate to return to their owners, and 4.1 million get new parents yearly?
However, to make it easy for you and your new pet, visiting local animal shelters or rescue organizations and choosing a dog that fits your lifestyle will be helpful.
You can also consider fostering and providing temporary care and love for a dog until they find a forever home.
Also, give them space when needed and gradually introduce them to new experiences.
Tips to Adopt or Foster a Rescue Dog
- Before bringing a dog home, understand the responsibilities and be aware of different breeds, dog behavior, needs, etc.
- Choose the ethically reputed rescue organization for adoption.
- Create a safe environment for the new dog.
- Dog-proof your home by removing hazardous substances.
- Establish a consistent routine for eating, exercising, and bathroom breaks.
- Shower with love, care, and compassion.
- Reach out to trainers and online communities for support if needed.
Rescue dogs are vulnerable and may require time to adjust and trust their new environment and owners. Therefore, it will help if you be patient, understanding, and compassionate.
2. Volunteer at a Local Dog Shelter
More than 3.1 million dogs and 3.2 million cats enter US animal shelters annually.
With this, most of the shelters are overpopulated and crowded, and many shelters ask for volunteering support to help with tasks such as walking dogs, cleaning kennels, assisting with adoption events, etc.
You can contribute to national rescue dog day by volunteering in local animal shelters or rescue organizations.
However, each shelter has its policies and mission, which may or may not align with your purpose.
Therefore, contacting a shelter prior and inquiring about volunteering criteria like age restrictions, time, duration, etc., will be helpful.
Tips for Volunteering at Local Shelter
- Feed and water the dogs.
- Assist with medical treatments or administering medications under supervision.
- Provide essential grooming, such as brushing or nail trimming.
- Transport dogs to veterinary appointments or off-site adoption events.
- Assist with behavior modification programs under the guidance of a professional.
- Create or update dog profiles and bios for the shelter’s website or social media.
3.Donate to rescue organizations
Financial contributions can help support rescue organizations in their efforts to provide food, medical care, and shelter for dogs in need.
You can contribute by donating supplies such as food, blankets, or toys and fundraising campaigns on sites like “GoFundMe” that support rescue dog initiatives.
Moreover, you can choose between local and national rescue organizations like ASPCA, Humane Society International, PETA, etc. Local organizations directly impact the community, while national ones may have broader reach and resources.
It will be best to consider thoroughly which will be more effective for your donations.
Things to Consider While Donating to Rescue Organizations
- Research the organization’s reputation and transparency.
- Evaluate their financial accountability and responsible use of funds.
- Assess the impact and effectiveness of their rescue programs.
- Explore volunteer and fostering opportunities.
- Look for regular communication and updates on their work.
- Verify if the organization is a registered nonprofit for tax deductibility.
- Check for partnerships with other animal welfare groups.
- Evaluate their long-term sustainability and vision.
4. Spread awareness
Utilize your social media platforms, local community bulletin boards, or word of mouth to raise awareness about National Rescue Dog Day and the importance of rescuing and adopting dogs.
You can also share heartwarming stories of rescued dogs or information about local adoption events online.
Moreover, you can host events to educate others about responsible pet ownership and the guidelines for adopting a pet and provide resources to care for rescue dogs.
How to Aware People About Rescue Dogs
- Use social media platforms to create posts and share photos/videos of rescue dogs.
- Organize adoption events in collaboration with local shelters and pet stores.
- Volunteer at animal shelters and assist with feeding, grooming, and socializing rescue dogs.
- Conduct educational workshops and seminars on rescue dog adoption and responsible pet ownership.
- Create and distribute informative brochures and pamphlets about rescue dog adoption.
- Collaborate with influencers or bloggers to promote rescue dog adoption on their platforms.
- Contact local media outlets to cover stories about Rescue Dog Day and rescue dog adoption.
You can use hashtags like #RescueDogDay, #AdoptRescueDogs, or #SupportRescueDogs to reach a wider audience.
Emphasize the positive aspects of rescue dog adoption and the rewarding experience it brings.
5. Support legislation and initiatives
Staying informed about legislative efforts related to animal welfare can promote support initiatives and the well-being of rescue dogs.
You can make a panel discussion event by joining local representatives and organizations like Animal Rescue League that advocate for animal rights.
These events help shape policies that protect and improve the lives of dogs in need.
How to Improve Rescue Dog Lives by Legal Means
- Contact your local authorities to express support for initiatives protecting rescue dogs.
- Join animal rights organizations like Animal People, Four Paws, etc., to participate in advocacy campaigns actively.
- Attend public consultations and hearings to provide input on animal welfare issues.
- Use digital platforms to raise awareness about legislation and initiatives for rescue dog welfare.
- Support organizations that work towards improving rescue dog conditions and adoption processes.
- Volunteer your time and skills to assist in the legislative process or campaign efforts.
- Stay engaged and updated on progress and animal welfare laws and regulations changes.
Conclusion
National Rescue Dog Day calls us to action to give the love and happiness that rescue dogs yearn for.
Adopting or fostering, volunteering, donating, spreading awareness, and supporting legislation can transform lives and create wagging tails and hearts filled with joy.
Together, let’s create a brighter future for rescue dogs, offering them love, care, and forever homes, being a hero in a dog’s life.
If you need help, consider consulting Urban Pet Supply, a certified veterinarian and behaviorist in Urbandale.
