Give your dog a dog-gone good day on Aug. 1! If your canine companion was a rescue dog with an unknown birthday, or if you just don’t know his birthday but want to celebrate him each year, this is the day to do it. The first day of August is marked as the universal birthday for rescue dogs called DOGust.

Plan to play with your furry pal, snuggle on the couch if it’s allowed or celebrate his special day with some of these suggestions:
– Your pup may be eyeing that buttercreme layer cake at the bakery, but nix the calories and sugar for an all-natural treat made just for him. 
– Give him a new bed. Not only will having his own bed give him a safe spot if he is a little anxious, but neither of you will be tussling for leg room to stretch out on the couch. 
– Drink to his health. Well, maybe not in the adult human sense, but today is a great day to surprise him with a new food or water bowl. Tossing old dishware is a great way to help keep him healthy, as old food and water bowls can begin to harbor bacteria over time even if they are routinely cleaned. 
– Make a trip to the dog park. Surprise him with a trip to his favorite park to see his friends and spend some extra time in the fresh air. 

Whatever you choose to do to celebrate your dog’s special day, it will be another day full of memories and joy brought to your life by your furry friend!