When Coleen Paige instituted National Puppy Day in 2007, the animal advocate had a distinct goal in mind – to educate the public on the very great need to adopt puppies from shelters. Only 26% of the puppies acquired in the United States are rescue dogs, and because of the reality of puppy mills, overbreeding, and overpopulation, these precious animals face real peril.

National Puppy Day also celebrates the people who have dedicated their lives to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming puppies and older dogs alike. These people are quite literally saving canine lives every day – let them know you appreciate them, with a beautiful floral design from Marco Island Florist to brighten up the shelter. Unfortunately, over 4 million dogs enter shelters each year, and as many as 50% of them will be euthanized due to lack of space and resources at the shelters. For puppies, the prospects are bleak – only 10% of puppies in shelters will ever find a forever home.

Although many people assume that rescue dogs must have some kind of behavior issue that forced their owners to give them up, the exact opposite is actually true. The vast majority of dogs in shelters are there through no fault of their own. Rescue workers will tell you that with a little love and attention, these dogs are some of the sweetest, most loyal and joyful pets you will ever encounter. If you are looking for a new furry family member, rescue dogs are a perfect choice. And by giving them a new home, you are saving their life.

On National Puppy Day, organizers hope that you will consider adopting a puppy from a shelter of your choice. If that is not a possibility, a donation to help them meet expenses will be appreciated. As for the dedicated volunteers and workers who advocate on behalf of these special dogs, send flowers from Marco Island Florist Home & Gifts to thank them for all they do.