National Lost Dog Awareness Day

National Lost Dog Awareness Day is an American holiday dedicated to missing dogs. Lost pets can quickly perish if they are not taken to a shelter or reunited with their owners. They are not adapted to life on the streets. It is celebrated annually on April 23.

History

The history of National Lost Dog Awareness Day began in 2014, when it was established by Lost Dogs of America. The holiday is dedicated to finding missing animals and bringing them back home. Owners are encouraged to provide full information about their missing pets to aid in the search, including details such as appearance, breed, and any distinctive features (like physical marks or collars). According to Lost Dogs of America, over 75% of the missing animals reported to them are successfully found and returned to their homes.

Unfortunately, not all dogs are lost by accident. Some owners deliberately abandon their pets due to boredom, lack of time, or during relocation. Such actions are inhumane, as owners must take responsibility for the life and well-being of their pets.

Interesting Facts

• Statistics show that a pet goes missing every minute in the United States.
• Of all the missing pet cases, only about one-third of owners contact the appropriate organizations to help find their pets.
• Approximately 80% of missing animals that are never returned to their owners end up in shelters, where many are eventually put to sleep.

How to Celebrate

Ensure your pet’s safety by investing in a GPS tracker and only walking your dog on a leash or in enclosed areas to prevent it from running away.

Spread the word about the holiday on social media. Ask users if their pets have ever gone missing and if they were able to bring them home.

When is National Lost Dog Awareness Day celebrated in 2025?

National Lost Dog Awareness Day is observed on April 23 each year.

Observations