International Dog Day

Today is National Dog Day, and I couldn’t let this day pass without talking about dogs and the incredible bond we share with them. This year is different for me, because my sweet boy Jäger—my shadow, my best friend, my business partner—crossed the rainbow bridge just a few days ago. It’s hard to even say those words out loud.

Just a few weeks ago, we found out that Jäger had a neurological disease. He went downhill extremely quickly, and medication was not helping him. We had to make the decision that no one ever wants to make. I have spent much of the last few days crying, looking for him, and missing him- because Jäger never left my side. He was always a mama’s boy. This had become even more apparent after I resigned from my job in education in 2022 to focus on health and wellness. I began working from home, and we were together all the time. Jäger was with me as I recorded videos and podcast episodes- sometimes making an appearance or barking or in some way letting his presence be known. I decided to embrace that, and Jäger became a part of my business. I loved including him, and people clearly loved seeing him be included. Today, I want to honor him, celebrate the joy he brought to my life, and remind us all of the deep love and lessons our dogs give us.

Dogs are pure love. They don’t care what kind of day we’re having, what we look like, or what messes are happening in our lives. They show up—loyal, patient, and full of joy. Jäger reminded me of this every single day. Dogs teach us to live in the moment, to find joy in the simple things, and to love without conditions. And dogs are always ready to party! International Dog Day isn’t just about celebrating the dogs in our homes—it’s about recognizing the gift they truly are. 

Jäger was with me through everything—my constant companion whether I was working, resting, laughing, or crying. He loved barking when anyone came to our door. He wanted so badly to play with the bunnies in our yard. Jäger loved everyone. He loved taking naps, having treats, and pup cups. The last few days, life feels so different without him. It’s lonely and I feel like part of me is missing. Through the tears and the grief, I feel so grateful for the years I had with him. Eight years was not enough, though. He changed my life in ways I’ll never forget. 

In Jäger’s honor, we just donated food and toys to the Humane Society. It felt like the right way to keep his love alive—by helping other dogs who are still waiting for homes and families of their own. There are so many animals in shelters right now who need us. If you’re able, consider donating food, supplies, money, or even your time. And if you’ve been thinking about adopting, maybe today is the reminder you needed. Adopting a dog doesn’t just save their life—it changes yours too. 

Even though it’s International Dog Day, know that there are so many other animals waiting to be adopted too. We saw cats, guinea pigs, and heard they’d even had bunnies, pigs, goats, and an emu. There are so many animals needing loving homes. 

Back to the reason for this special day- dogs. If you still have your dog with you, hug them extra close today. Take the walk. Play the game. Let them take up too much room on the couch- or in your bed. Dogs are only here for a little while, but they leave us with a lifetime of love. If, like me, you’ve had to say goodbye, take today to honor them. Share a story, light a candle, or just close your eyes and remember the way they looked at you with unconditional love. They may be gone physically, but they never really leave us.

On this International Dog Day, I celebrate Jäger—but also Oakley, Dekker, Maddie, Decoy, Cody, Harpo, and Saturday. All the dogs who have been in my life since childhood. And I celebrate every dog who has brought light, love, and laughter into the world. If you have a dog, hug them tighter today, remember the ones you’ve lost. If you can, open your heart to a dog who’s still waiting for a home. Because every dog deserves to be loved—and every heart deserves a dog.

I recently read a quote that resonates so deeply with me- 

“Your dog is your best friend for part of your life. You are your dog’s best friend for his whole life.”

Thank you for reading, and Happy International Dog Day!