Animal Shelters, Rescue Groups, and Happy Adopters Worldwide Spotlight the Importance of Adoption and the Life-Changing Impact of Rescue Dogs

PORT WASHINGTON, N.Y., Aug. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Friday, August 1^st is DOGust 1^{ST ®}– the official birthday for all rescue dogs – and North Shore Animal League America, along with sponsor Fetch Pet Insurance, is encouraging animal lovers across the country and around the globe to join in celebrating all the joy and love adopted animals bring to our homes and lives.

Since the actual birthdates of most rescued dogs aren't known, in 2008 Animal League America created the DOGust 1^st holiday to celebrate all rescues (those already adopted and those still waiting for their forever homes.) This day was designated in honor of all these incredible "Mutt-i-grees" as a thank you for the profoundly positive impact they have on our lives. Today thousands of shelters, rescue groups, influencers, organizations, and animal lovers nationwide and globally celebrate DOGust 1^st. With events featuring adoption specials, birthday themed activities, and local media opportunities, the hope is that even more rescue dogs will find loving, responsible homes.

This year, DOGust 1^st is sponsored by Fetch Pet Insurance who has been a long-time supporter of Animal League America's no-kill mission. They are hosting DOGust 1^st activations at select shelter partners across the U.S. with promotions and the opportunity to sign up for Fetch Pet Insurance.

Animal League America believes pet insurance is an important component of responsible pet ownership and helps families should unexpected and potentially expensive medical situations for their pets occur.  Fetch is the official pet insurance offered to adopters through North Shore Animal League America, with Fetch representatives on site during the adoption process.

"We are proud and gratified to see how DOGust 1^st resonates with our shelter partners and animal lovers across the country and around the world," said Joanne Yohannan, Senior Vice President, Operations, North Shore Animal League America. "The fun and engaging activities being held to celebrate DOGust 1^st further shine a light on the importance of rescue and adoption."

To find a participating DOGust 1st shelter partner, visit www.animalleague.org/dogust1st

For photos and videos of dogs celebrating and related assets for DOGust 1^st, visit:
2025 DOGust 1st ASSETS for MEDIA 
Photo & Video Credit: Courtesy of North Shore Animal League America

MEDIA CONTACT:
KATHLEEN LYNN
   Senior Director of Communications
   Cell:       (516) 528-7878  
   Email:   KathleenL@animalleague.org  

About NORTH SHORE ANIMAL LEAGUE AMERICA^®
Over the past 80 years since its founding, North Shore Animal League America has saved more than 1.2 million lives. As the world's largest no-kill rescue and adoption organization, we understand that a rescue isn't complete until each animal is placed into a loving home.  Our innovative programs provide education to reduce animal cruelty and advance standards in animal welfare.  We reach across the country to rescue animals from overcrowded shelters, unwanted litters, commercial breeding facilities, natural disasters and other emergencies and find them permanent, loving homes. www.animalleague.org

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SOURCE North Shore Animal League America