This ‘International Dog Day’, which is celebrated on August 26 each year, would-be dog owners are being asked to consider adopting or fostering a rescue before looking at a dog from a breeder.

Founded in 2004 by American animal welfare advocate Colleen Paige, International Dog Day aims to honour dogs and raise awareness about animal welfare and adoption.

The specific date was chosen as it is the anniversary of the day the Paige family adopted their dog, a Sheltie named ‘Buddy’.

At the Coolum Advertiser, we have a soft spot for dogs and are proud to share the work of 4 Paws Animal Rescue Inc each month, by way of spotlighting one of the group’s dogs looking for a forever family.

The Sunshine Coast-based rescue has been helping homeless dogs and cats since 2005 and is entirely run by volunteers and relies on donations.

A 4 Paws spokesperson said International Dog Day was a chance to celebrate what dogs bring to people’s lives.

“Today is all about dogs, but let’s face it – every day is all about dogs!

“The ones who make us laugh, the ones who keep us company, the ones who love us unconditionally, and become such a huge part of our lives.”

4 Paws relies on donations, foster carers and people willing to open their homes to animals that have often had a difficult start.

Some arrive from council pounds, and others are surrendered when their owners’ circumstances change, while some have been rescued from situations involving neglect or cruelty.

Every 4 Paws animal is vet-checked, microchipped, wormed, flea-treated, desexed, and council registered before being placed with an adoptive family.

If you’re thinking about adding a dog to the family, make rescue your first stop. And for those who already have a four-legged member of the household, today might be the perfect excuse for an extra treat, a longer walk or simply a little more time together.

Visit 4 Paws here: www.4pawsanimalrescue.org.au