Champions of the Underdog: Senior Pups, Shelter Rescue & Creating Lifelong Canine Joy on National Make a Dog’s Day (October 22)

Every year on October 22, dog lovers, animal shelters, veterinary clinics, and rescue advocates celebrate National Make a Dog’s Day. Established by Subaru of America as the flagship cornerstone of its "Subaru Loves Pets" initiative, this day urges pet owners to shower their dogs with love while championing the most vulnerable dogs in municipal shelters: the "Underdogs".

Who Are the Shelter "Underdogs"?

While adorable puppies are typically adopted within hours of arriving at a shelter, specific demographics face extended kennel stays:

• Senior Dogs (Ages 7 and Older): Gentle, already house-trained, and requiring less rigorous physical exercise, senior dogs are often passed over due to ageism, despite offering unparalleled loyal companionship.
• Special-Needs Dogs: Pups with mobility challenges, three-legged dogs ("tripods"), blind dogs, or deaf dogs who adapt with inspiring joy when given a loving home.
• Dogs with Treatable Chronic Conditions: Canines with mild heart murmurs, skin allergies, or diabetes who require minimal daily management.

Five Meaningful Ways to Make a Dog’s Day Today

1. The "Sniffari" Decompression Walk: Dogs explore the world primarily through olfaction. Give your dog a 45-minute unstructured walk where they choose the route and sniff every blade of grass without tugging.
2. Donate Blankets & Durable Chews to Local Rescues: Shelter kennels in late autumn desperately need clean bedding, non-choking chew toys, and high-protein canned food.
3. Sponsor an Adoption Fee: Visit your local shelter’s website and pay the adoption fee for the longest-resident dog to help clear their path to a forever family.