As National Golden Retriever Day gets ready to celebrate its 13th anniversary, we have everything you need to know right here, including the adorable of how it started.
Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds and for good reason! Not only are they gentle, loving and devoted, but they’re highly intelligent and great at following instructions, which is why they often work as search-and-rescue dogs.
Also one of the friendliest dog breeds, Golden Retrievers make for wonderful family pets and their sweet natures mean that they’re commonly used as therapy and service dogs, too.
Given what a joy this breed is, we’re so happy that they have their own special day where we can celebrate the happiness they bring to so many lives. Below you’ll find everything you need to know about National Golden Retriever Day, including when it is and how you can get involved.
What is National Golden Retriever Day?
National Golden Retriever Day is the brainchild of Kristen Shroyer who came up with the idea of a day devoted to Golden Retrievers while drinking a cup of coffee and watching the news with her own Golden, Quincy, at her feet.
Listening to a newscaster report on ‘Eat Cherry Pie Day’, Shroyer suddenly had a thought – if cherry pie had its own day, then there was bound to be a day for Golden Retrievers, right?
Well, as it turns out, there wasn’t, so Shroyer set about creating one, picking Quincy’s birthday (February 3rd) as the day for this important annual event. Although Quincy sadly died in 2015 from cancer at the age of seven, his love and light continues to shine every year as the world celebrates National Golden Retriever Day.
When is National Golden Retriever Day?
Circle your calendars and get ready to join in on all the fun because National Golden Retriever Day is almost here. This year it falls on Monday February 3rd, marking 13 years since the event first kicked off back in 2012.
How can you celebrate?
There are so many ways that you can get in on all the fun this National Golden Retriever Day, here are just a few of our favorites:
1. Spread the word
Share photos of your Golden Retriever or information about this day across your social media platforms, using #GoldenRetrieverDay on all your posts.
2. Treat your Golden
Why not take your pup to his/her favorite park or beach for a big walk or spend some time playing a few indoor games for dogs if the weather makes venturing into the great outdoors feel less than appealing.
3. Donate to a local organization
Animal shelters and other humane organizations are always on the lookout for dog toys, food, beds and blankets, so if you have anything that you think might be suitable, why not donate it to a great cause.
Or if you’re feeling proactive, here are some reasons to volunteer at your local animal shelter.
4. Adopt a Golden
Don’t have a Golden Retriever in your life? Why not adopt one! If you feel you have the time, space, and financial resources to welcome a dog into your life, you won’t find a better companion than a Golden. Speak to your local animal shelter about bringing home a forever friend.
Here’s some tips on adopting a dog from our vet – and some reasons to adopt if you need a little more convincing!
If you’re a fan of the breed, you may also enjoy these Golden Retriever facts, too!