Established in 2006, National Puppy Day celebrated on March 23 is a paw-some day for all dog enthusiasts to come together and collectively fawn over the undeniably cutest furballs that bring us so much happiness! 

5 Fun Facts About Puppies

1. Puppies spend up to 20 hours a day sleeping, which helps develop their brain, bodies, and immune system. In comparison, human babies spend about 16 hours a day sleeping.
2. Puppies are toothless until they are about 4 weeks old. Their hearing and vision aren’t fully developed until this time as well.
3. Researchers have discovered that looking at pictures of puppies can actually help you focus better.
4. Puppies start their canine vocalization at around 3 weeks of age, with full barks at around 16 weeks.
5. They have all their adult teeth by the time they’re 6 months old.

While we’re all softies when it comes to our four-legged friends, today is also designed to help prospective pet owners consider adoption. However, if adoption is not in your future, there are other ways to help puppies in need: 

Become A Virtual Volunteer

Spring is a time when animal shelters are especially in need of volunteers, as they tend to see an increase in the number of puppies during this time. And volunteering doesn’t have to be an in-person event. You might not be able to play with the puppies, but you will still be helping them.

Become A Foster Mom or Dad

If you can’t adopt a puppy right now, but can open your home to a pet in need temporarily, fostering is a good option. It’s not only rewarding, but it helps shelters free up space for other dogs. Fostering allows you to get some fun one-on-one time with puppies while teaching them socialization, potty training, and basic commands. A puppy that’s mastered these basic skills is more likely to be adopted and quickly. 

Donate

Shelters are usually looking for donations such as canned food, bagged dry food, unused toys, bowls, and other supplies. Or consider starting a supply drive: ask your local shelter what they most need, and then reach out to friends and neighbors to collect supplies.  

If you want more information on how to adopt a dog or how you can help animals in need, please visit SPCA.