We love the happiness and love that animals add to our lives – in fact, in the United States, 75 million dogs and 85 million cats are kept as beloved pets. However, the issues of overpopulation and abandonment are very real. The shelters are full-to-overflowing, and 2.7 million euthanizations of unwanted or surrendered animals take place per year (1.4 million of which are dogs).  National Puppy Day was established a decade ago by Coleen Paige, an animal activist hoping to raise awareness and highlight the need for animal lovers to adopt and rescue puppies from shelters. Of course, rescuing more mature dogs saves lives as well, and is especially meaningful as surrendered adult dogs are often very confused and sad about losing their home and family. 

Fast Fact: Only about 35% of dogs in shelters will ever be rehomed. While puppies are more readily adopted than adult dogs, they still vie for attention against for-profit breeders and the “puppy-mills” which have come under critical scrutiny of late. Adopting or fostering a shelter puppy gives them the best chance at a long and happy life.

National Puppy Day is a great opportunity to recognize all of the dedicated humans who work diligently to save these animals, love them back to health if necessary, and strive tirelessly to find them loving homes. If you wish to thank the shelter and rescue workers or volunteers who have loved your puppy as much as you do, a floral arrangement or green plant is a sweet gesture. (You may wish to consider adding our adorable Puppy Mirror to your arrangement!) 

Did You Know? Puppies and dogs from shelters exhibit unexpectedly happy and sweet dispositions. They seem to understand they have been given another chance in a forever home and will love you for it. They are also generally well socialized and fit in well with your children and other pets. The advocates at the shelter will be happy to match you with a pet with the perfect temperament for your family.

On National Puppy Day, organizers encourage people to consider adopting a puppy. If that is not a possibility, they suggest a donation to a local Wilmington no-kill shelter. The floral designers at Julia’s Florist will be happy to create a custom arrangement for any occasion worth celebrating, no matter how large or small!