It's National Dog Day: See adorable photos of lucky pups who met their new families this year
Dogs drool on your couch. They greet you at the door. And most importantly, they adore the people around them with their kind puppy eyes and unconditional affection.
Friday is National Dog Day, an annual event founded in 2004 that aims to encourage people to adopt dogs and celebrate all pups, no matter the breed, according to the National Dog Day website.
"Our mission is to help galvanize the public to recognize the number of dogs that need to be rescued each year and acknowledges family dogs and dogs that work selflessly each day to save lives, keep us safe and bring comfort," the website says.
Animal shelters have seen a decrease in adoptions compared to last year, according to a report from the Shelter Animals Count National Database. The report predicts dog populations in shelters will increase by the end of the year.
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The Springfield News-Leader, part of the Paste BN Network, spoke to an animal shelter in Missouri, which reported that financial strain, a return to in-person work and people who move and can't take their pets are likely why there are more surrenders in the area this year.
Watch: Some of the boldest and brightest of our four-legged friends
Despite the downward trend in adoptions, take a look at these lucky dogs that found new homes this year.
Doggy curiosity
- Why do dogs lick you?: Explaining why your pet licks you and when it might be too much.
- What colors can dogs see?: Explaining your dog's worldview and what colors it can see.
- Stop eating the grass: Does eating grass make dogs sick? What to know and when to see a vet.
- Why does my dog tilt its head?: Trying to understand your pet's nonverbal communication.
- What human foods can dogs eat?: Here's what is and isn't safe for your pet to consume.
Camille Fine is a trending visual producer on Paste BN's NOW team.