Does your canine buddy do a happy dance when you get home, just because he’s so happy to see you? Dogs are super loyal to their humans, and they really just want to hang out with us 24/7. That devotion is behind Hug Your Dog Day, which is a pretty ‘pawesome’ reminder of how wonderful Fido is. A local Roanoke, VA vet offers some info on this below.

Reasons To Hug Fido 

You don’t really need an excuse to hug Fido. However, this is a great time to show him some extra attention. Dogs are incredibly loyal and loving. They have stood guard over our homes and livestock; helped us out with hunting, tracking, retrieving, and pest control; and even risked their lives to save us. Man’s Best Friend has also held many important jobs, such as search and rescue. Of course, his love and devotion are the things we value most about dogs. Your furry bff will stand firmly beside you no matter what life throws at you! 

Hugging Tips 

There is a caveat here: not all dogs enjoy being hugged. This is largely because hugs are seen as a sign of dominance in doggy language. Don’t force the issue if Fido seems uneasy: pamper him with treats or belly rubs instead. Also, be extra careful with strange pooches, particularly those that seem timid or uneasy. If you have children, this is a perfect time to talk to them about these things.

Puppy Love

If you have a puppy, it’s even more important for you to get little Fido’s tail going. Socialization is crucial to your furry buddy’s mental and emotional development! Have some friends or family members with friendly dogs come over to pet and play with the little guy. This will help him grow into a trusting, friendly pooch. Ask your vet for more information. 

Share The Love

Another great way to celebrate this special occasion? Take a photo of you and your canine companion hugging, and share it on social media. Use the  hashtag #national_hug_your_dog_day. This is also a good time to share posts about adoptable pups that are in need of homes. Just sharing a post may change Fido’s life. All our furry friends deserve to be loved and cuddled!

Please contact us with any questions or concerns. As your local Roanoke, VA pet clinic, we are here to help!