National Dog Day falls on August 26; the annual celebration has been commemorated since 2004 as a means of bringing awareness to the special place dogs hold in the lives of their owners and to acknowledge the many pets who still haven’t found their forever homes. The team at Bar-King Dog Kennel in Keaau, HI, a dog boarding facility, have rounded up the top three ways to celebrate your four-legged friend on this special occasion.

Spend Time Together

The number one tip from a dog boarding center on this fun day is to spend time with the animal you love. If you’re already a dog owner, take your pet to the dog park, beach, or to socialize with other four-legged friends. For those who have yet to find the perfect furry companion, visit an animal shelter and consider adopting a dog – only after you’ve thought about the time and resources needed to properly care for one.

Give Back

Whether or not you have a furry friend at home, you can give back to other animals in your community. Animal shelters will allow you to donate time or money to give back to the dogs they house. Check with your local shelter to see if you can volunteer to walk dogs for an hour or two throughout the day, or inquire about the best way to give a monetary donation.

Have a Home Inspection

Lastly, for those who have pets at home, appreciate your canine by giving your home a thorough safety and comfort inspection. Does your dog have access to the backyard? Are they getting enough water throughout the day? Does their bed need an upgrade? If needed, buy extra toys or bedding for your bed so they remain comfortable in your home.

You love your pet and can’t wait to celebrate National Dog Day in their honor. But for the times when you need to spend time away from your furry friend, there’s Bar-King Dog Kennel. Offering canine care, temporary housing services, and grooming options, the dog boarding center is the best place on the island for your dog. For more information, visit their website or call (808) 966-8733.