There are a lot of dog lovers in the world, but most people choose dogs based solely on the fact that the dog looks furry and cuddly or because the dog is a “pure breed.” A lot of people just buy dogs based on their looks and never consider a mixed breed dog. I want to encourage you to consider pet adoption and opening your mind, heart, and home to a dog who needs you.

Today, December 2nd, is National Mutt Day which is ironic considering that December is the most loving and giving month of the year. Mixed breed dogs are often the most loyal because they have so much love and devotion to give to you!

What is National Mutt Day?

It’s true that all dogs need homes and love, but this national holiday is a day in which we celebrate mixed dog breeds and bring awareness to the overpopulation of dogs in America.

Think about this sad fact. Every year, 670,000 dogs (mostly mutts) are put in a shelter. They’re just sitting there in misery, longing for a home. According to NationalMuttDay.com, “This special day was created to be celebrated on two dates per year, to raise awareness of the plight of mixed breed dogs in shelters around the nation, as approximately 80% of dogs in shelters are mixed breeds. Most pure breeds that end up in the shelter are generally rescued quickly by either the public wanting a “less expensive” pure bred dog or by a pure breed rescue. The day’s mission is to educate the public about the sea of mixed breed dogs that desperately await new homes and to celebrate the amazing characteristics that the mix of breeds creates in each individual dog.”

What’s Great About a Mixed Breed Dog?

There are many reasons to adopt a shelter dog, but some important factors to consider off hand are that mixed breed dogs tend to be healthier, better behaved, and they live longer.

How Can You Help?

1. If you’re in the market for a new dog, please adopt from your local shelter. Don’t shop! In Macon County, you can reach out to Friends of Macon County Animal Control.
2. If you aren’t needing a new dog, but you know someone who does, direct them to the closest shelter and encourage them to save a dog’s life.
3. If you know someone who wanting a dog for Christmas, tell them they should adopt a dog this Christmas and make a difference!
4. Foster animals from the shelter. This means you’re providing a temporary home until the pup finds his or her furever home. It provides more space and financial relief to the shelter.
5. If you want to help but you can’t take on a dog at this time, consider donating money, food, toys, pet beds, etc. to your local shelter. They are always in need of assistance.
6. Lastly, always have your animals spayed and neutered to eliminate overpopulation of strays dogs. (That goes for cats too!)
7. BE RESPONSIBLE and encourage your family and friends to be responsible pet owners, too.

Educate yourself and others about the animal overpopulation crisis, spread awareness, informs others about how you can help, and help make a difference for your community! Most of all, remember the golden rule; don’t judge anyone just by their looks.

In every heart, there is a hole.
In every shelter, there is love
in which to fill it.
~Colleen Paige

Tell us about your mixed breed and/or adopted dog. What do you love about him or her? Is there a special story you can share? We would love to hear it!