National Pet Day: 5 Real Ways to Help Orphaned and Overlooked Pets
Every Pet Deserves a Damn Good Life: Honoring National Pet Day
National Pet Day isn’t just about celebrating the dogs curled up next to us on the couch. It’s also about remembering the ones still waiting for their forever home. Originally founded in 2005, this day was created to raise awareness for orphaned pets and encourage action that makes a difference.
At The Big Damn Dog Co., we believe every dog deserves a safe, loving home and a chance at a full, happy life—especially the big ones who are too often overlooked. Whether they were surrendered, abandoned, or born without a place to land, these dogs still have so much love to give—and we think they deserve better.
So this National Pet Day, we’re sharing a few real ways you can help.
1. Adopt if you can. Foster if you can't.
There are thousands of pets in shelters and rescues right now—waiting for someone to choose them. Giant breeds like Great Danes, Saint Bernards, and Mastiffs are no exception. While their size might intimidate some adopters, these dogs are often gentle, affectionate, and fiercely loyal. If you’re ready to open your heart (and your home) to a big dog in need, you can give them the second chance they deserve.
Fostering is just as powerful. It makes space in shelters, provides much-needed socialization for the dog, and gives them a stable environment while they wait for their forever family. Even a few weeks in a foster home can dramatically improve a dog’s adoptability.
2. Lend a hand.
Not everyone can adopt, and that’s okay. Shelters and rescues are always in need of support—whether that’s volunteering your time, donating supplies, sponsoring adoption fees, or even just sharing adoptable dogs on your social media. Every small act adds up.
Consider collecting gently used bedding, leashes, toys, or unopened food to drop off at your local shelter. Or sign up to walk dogs or help with weekend adoption events. Your efforts don’t have to be big to be meaningful.
3. Be their voice.
National Pet Day is the perfect time to speak up. Share rescue stories. Advocate for adoption. Educate others about the responsibilities of dog ownership—especially when it comes to large and giant breeds, who often require more time, training, and resources than many new owners realize.
Start conversations with friends and family who may be considering a pet. Talk about the importance of spaying and neutering, choosing reputable breeders or rescues, and committing for the long haul. Raising awareness helps prevent more pets from ending up in the system to begin with.
4. Support responsible ownership.
It’s not enough to simply adopt. Pets deserve homes where they’ll be properly cared for—with good nutrition, preventive care, safe housing, and training. Rescue dogs can thrive when given the right support, and owners need to be prepared to commit for life.
At The Big Damn Dog Co., we’ve seen firsthand how proactive care can extend the health and happiness of giant breed dogs. Whether it’s managing joint health early or providing enrichment and training, being a responsible dog owner means showing up every day.
5. Celebrate the pets you've loved—and the ones you’ve lost.
National Pet Day is also a time to reflect on the animals who’ve left a pawprint on our hearts. Whether your big dog is at your side or you’re remembering one who came before, this day is about honoring the connection we share with our pets and the lessons they’ve taught us about loyalty, love, and living in the moment.
Final Thoughts
This National Pet Day, let’s do more than just post cute photos of our pets (though we love those, too). Let’s take real steps to support the dogs who haven’t found their person yet.
Together, we can help give more pets—especially the big damn ones—the love, safety, and companionship they deserve.
