8月26日是「國際愛狗日」，這一天專屬於人類最忠誠的朋友——狗狗。對許多人來說，狗並不僅僅是寵物，而是生活中無可取代的陪伴。牠們帶著最純粹的情感與溫暖的氣息，無聲地守護著我們的日常，無論是孤單、焦慮，還是疲憊時，一個搖尾巴的迎接或輕輕依偎，總能成為最貼心的慰藉。

「國際狗狗日」（International Dog Day）的設立，源自美國動物福利倡導者Colleen Paige。2004年，她正式發起這個紀念日，而選擇8月26日，是因為這正是她十歲時收養人生第一隻愛犬的日子。這樣的緣分，也讓她希望透過紀念日，提醒世人珍惜與狗狗的連結，同時推動社會更正視牠們的存在與價值。

這一天的意義，不僅是單純的「愛狗」宣言，更包含三層深遠的倡議。首先，它呼籲「以領養代替購買」。在世界各地，仍有無數流浪犬與收容所中的狗狗等待一個家。相較於從寵物店或繁殖場購買，選擇收養能改變一條生命的命運，甚至拯救牠的一生。其次，是對狗狗多重角色的致敬。牠們不只是家庭中的小夥伴，還可能是無障礙生活的重要支柱——如導盲犬；是守護社會安全的警犬；是拯救生命的搜救犬；也是療癒人心的治療犬。狗狗的付出，早已超越「寵物」的框架，真正成為人類社會不可或缺的一份子。最後，這一天也再次強調飼主的責任。愛狗不只是情感上的依戀，更應該落實在科學飼養與日常照護上。給予狗狗健康的飲食、必要的訓練、適當的運動，最重要的是尊重與關愛，讓牠們能在陪伴人類的同時，也獲得應有的幸福。

因此，每年的8月26日，不單是愛狗人士的節日，更是一個提醒世人「善待牠們，就是善待自己」的時刻。狗狗以無條件的愛與忠誠陪伴著我們，而人類能回應的，便是給牠們一個安心的家，以及長久不變的守護。

August 26th marks International Dog Day, a day dedicated to humanity’s most loyal companions—dogs. For many people, dogs are far more than pets; they are irreplaceable companions in daily life. They bring the purest emotions and the warmest presence, silently guarding our routines. In moments of loneliness, anxiety, or exhaustion, a wagging tail or a gentle nuzzle can become the most comforting solace.

International Dog Day was established by American animal welfare advocate Colleen Paige in 2004. The date, August 26th, was chosen because it was the day she adopted her first dog at the age of ten. This personal connection inspired her to create a day that not only celebrates dogs but also encourages society to recognize and value their presence.

The significance of this day goes beyond a simple declaration of “love for dogs” and encompasses three key messages. First, it promotes adoption over purchasing. Around the world, countless dogs in shelters are waiting for a home. Choosing adoption instead of buying from pet stores or breeders can change a life and even save it. Second, it pays tribute to the many roles dogs play. They are not just household companions—they may be guide dogs supporting accessibility, police dogs ensuring safety, rescue dogs saving lives, or therapy dogs offering emotional healing. Dogs’ contributions go far beyond being “pets,” making them an indispensable part of human society. Finally, the day emphasizes responsible and caring ownership. Loving a dog means more than emotional attachment—it requires scientific care and daily attention. Providing proper nutrition, exercise, training, and respect ensures that dogs are happy and healthy while accompanying humans.

Thus, every August 26th is not only a celebration for dog lovers but also a reminder that caring for dogs is also caring for ourselves. Dogs offer unconditional love and loyalty, and what humans can give in return is a safe home and steadfast protection throughout their lives.