It is National Puppy Day.
Observed each year on March 23rd, National Puppy Day celebrates the unconditional love and affection puppies bring to our lives. Their cuddles and wiggles make us smile and without a doubt, there are squeals of delight when there are puppies around! But we would be remiss if we didn’t tell you about National Puppy Day’s mission. Today isn’t merely a day to celebrate tiny canine cuteness, but to encourage prospective pet owners to adopt puppies instead of buying them.
The day also brings awareness to the need for care of and homes for orphaned pups as well as to educate people about the horrors of puppy mills across the country. Puppies are a big responsibility. Be sure to consider everything involved and adopt from a shelter or check out Rescue Groups. The puppies there need love and a home just as much as any other and they grow into loyal pets, too!
Animal rights groups have adopted the “Adopt Don’t Shop” slogan to spread awareness of inhumane practices at puppy mills, which often supply dogs sold online and at pet stores.
Did you know:
- There are approximately 500-600 million dogs, including strays, throughout the world.
- Puppy mills are commercial, dog-breeding organizations that focus on profit, while ignoring the health and welfare of the animals. 3 million puppies are killed in puppy mills because they are too full and not enough have found homes.
- Remember to spay or neuter your pet in order to control the stray dog population
