April is Dog Appreciation Month, and honestly, if you’re a dog lover, every month probably feels like dog appreciation month. But this is your official excuse to spoil your pup even more than usual (as if you needed one). Whether your dog is a couch potato, a fetch champion, or the self-appointed ruler of your household, this month is all about celebrating them — and let’s be real, they totally deserve it.
But Dog Appreciation Month isn’t just about pampering your own pup (though, yes, belly rubs are always encouraged). It’s also about raising awareness for rescue dogs, shelter pups, and all the incredible ways dogs make our lives better.
So, let’s talk about why dogs are basically the best, how to celebrate this month, and a few fun facts you might not know about your four-legged best friend.
Why Do We Celebrate Dog Appreciation Month?
Dogs have been our loyal companions for thousands of years, and let’s face it—our lives would be much less entertaining without them. They provide unconditional love, emotional support, and let’s not forget, a good excuse to get outside and touch some grass.
But Dog Appreciation Month isn’t just about celebrating our own pets—it’s also about recognizing the millions of dogs in shelters waiting for their forever homes. As someone who has spent her life with adopted dogs, I truly appreciate a shelter or rescue dog.
Every year, countless dogs are surrendered or abandoned due to financial hardships, lifestyle changes, or just plain bad decisions (seriously, who abandons a dog?!).
By spreading awareness, supporting rescues, and promoting responsible pet ownership, we can help more dogs find the loving homes they deserve.
Ways to Celebrate Dog Appreciation Month
So, how can you make the most of Dog Appreciation Month? Here are a few ideas that will make your pup’s tail wag—and maybe even help a few dogs in need.
1. Treat Your Dog to an Extra Special Day
Think of it as a doggy holiday. Take them on an adventure—maybe a new hiking trail, a dog-friendly café, or just an extended park visit where they can sniff every blade of grass. Bring their favorite treats, let them roll in the mud (if you can handle the cleanup), and just enjoy their company.
Want to know where there are some dog-friendly places in Chattanooga? Check out the Ultimate Guide to Pet Photography! At the bottom of the post there is a list of places you can take your pup!
2. Support a Local Shelter or Rescue
Not every pup is lucky enough to have a warm bed and a loving home. Many shelters in East Tennessee and North Georgia are overflowing with dogs who need help. Whether it’s donating supplies, volunteering, or even fostering a dog for a short period, there are plenty of ways to make a difference.
Some great local shelters to support:
- Humane Educational Society (Chattanooga, TN)
- McKamey Animal Center (Chattanooga, TN)
- Trooper’s Treasures (Chattanooga, TN) – Our dog, Chloe, is a Trooper’s Treasure alumna!
3. Learn More About Your Dog’s Health & Happiness
Did you know petting a dog for just 15 minutes can lower your blood pressure? Science says your dog is basically a four-legged therapist. And since you already spoil them, why not make sure you’re doing it in a way that supports their health?
- Make sure they’re eating a balanced diet.
- Schedule an annual vet checkup especially if it’s been a while.
- Learn about mental stimulation—puzzle toys, training exercises, and interactive games keep their brains active!
Fun Facts About Dogs You Probably Didn’t Know
Because let’s be honest, we all love some weird dog trivia.
🐶 Your dog’s nose print is as unique as a human fingerprint. No two are alike!
🐶 Dogs yawn when they hear humans yawn. It’s called contagious yawning, and yes, it means they’re emotionally connected to you.
🐶 Almost half of all dogs in the U.S. sleep in their owner’s bed. The other half? They’re still trying to take over the bed.
🐶 Dogs’ noses can sense heat and thermal radiation. Even blind or deaf dogs can “see” their surroundings this way.
🐶 Studies show petting a dog can reduce stress and anxiety. So if you needed an excuse to spend an extra 10 minutes snuggling your pup, here it is.
The Takeaway? Celebrate Your Dog Every Day
Let’s be real—Dog Appreciation Month is just an official excuse to do what you’re already doing: loving the heck out of your dog. Whether you go big with a special trip, volunteer at a shelter, or just give them an extra treat (or five), what matters is recognizing how much joy they bring to our lives.
And if you’re looking for a way to capture that joy forever? Well, that’s where I come in. I specialize in custom pet portraits for dog owners in Chattanooga, TN, and beyond, creating stunning artwork that lets you cherish your pup long after their zoomies have slowed down.
Want to learn more? Let’s chat about turning your best friend into a work of art.
Ready to Turn your Best Friend into a Work of Art?
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Betsy Bird, Cr. Photog., CPP, of Ride the Sky Equine Photography spends her days doing insane things to make animals look at her. Clearly, she’s desperate for attention. Outside of acting like a total goofball, she invests in growing her business, mentoring photographers, dealing with her teenagers' angst, and hanging with Nitro, the best dog ever.
Betsy has earned her Photographic Craftsman degree from the Professional Photographers of America (PPA) which honors photographers who contribute to the photographic industry through speaking, mentoring, and publishing. Betsy is also a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) with PPA. The CPP designation is held by fewer than 2,500 photographers nationwide and is a hallmark of consistency, technical skill, artistry, and professionalism.
She serves on the Board of Directors for the Professional Photographers of East Tennessee (PPETN) and the Tennessee Professional Photographers Association (TNPPA). She is also a professional member of the Equine Photographers Network (EPN).
Betsy's award-winning work has been featured in a variety of publications and is found throughout homes and stables in the United States. She is also the co-author of the book, Equine & Equestrian Photography Poses that Sell: The Ultimate Guide to Posing Horses & Humans. She has also been featured on Scenic Trend, the Profitable Photographer Podcast, Chrome Magazine, The Business Animal Podcast, Chatter Magazine, Cowgirls with Cameras Podcast, the Chattanooga Times Free Press, the Chattanoogan, and the Focal Points Podcast to name a few.
Ride the Sky specializes in on-location photography for equines and pets. Based in Chattanooga, TN, Ride the Sky Equine Photography works in Tennessee, North Georgia, and beyond.