Humans and dogs have always been best friends. Dogs have the power to brighten our days with their tail wagging and rolling around on the floor begging for belly rubs
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There is no doubt that they make for loyal companions and in this age of social media, an adorable video of a puppy is all you need to watch at the end of a long day
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International Dog Day, observed across the world on August 26, is a special day to celebrate our canine friends and raise awareness about their needs
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It was first celebrated in 2004 by animal welfare activist and pet lifestyle expert Colleen Paige
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Ms Paige chose the date of August 26 in particular as it was on this date that the activist's family adopted their first dog "Sheltie" from the local animal shelter
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The day was officially adopted in 2013 into the New York State Legislation
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It aims to draw attention to the fact that dogs must be rescued from unsustainable living situations
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In addition to promoting dog adoption, International Dog Day honours all indigenous and pedigree dog breeds
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Emphasis is also laid on discouraging the purchase of dogs from unethical backyard breeders and puppy mills, focussing instead on adoption from rescue homes