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International Dog Day was created to honor rescue animals, making it the ultimate occasion for dog lovers, with or without a pet of their own, to give extra love to our furry friends.
Celebrate this special day with these trusted pet services that will help you create a unique and memorable experience for you and your loyal companion.
When is International Dog Day?
International Dog Day, based on the National Dog Day observance in the United States, is celebrated every year on August 26. It started as a passion project, founded in 2004 by animal welfare advocate Colleen Paige. She picked the date to mark the day she adopted her first shelter dog, “Sheltie.”
Today, this special celebration is as much about honoring the bond we share with our pets as it’s about making a positive impact on animal welfare.
From meaningful acts of service to indulgent pampering sessions, dog lovers around the world find creative ways to join the celebration and make the day special.
5 Ideas to Pamper Your Furry Friend This International Dog Day
There’s a perfect activity waiting for your pup, whether they’re active tail waggers or a more laid-back couch buddy. Here are five ways to celebrate International Dog Day and give your dog the best day ever.
1. Treat your pup to pet cafes, restaurants, and bakery dates.
Image Credit: Paw Philippines Instagram
Treat your canine companion to a fun dining date this International Dog Day by exploring pet-friendly cafes and restaurants.
These welcoming establishments offer designated spaces where your dog can relax by your side, socialize with other pets, and enjoy dog-safe treats.
You can order all-natural, preservative-free custom pet cakes and pastries from Le’Barkery at Ayala Malls Manila Bay, or head over to the PAWS Pet Cafe at Ayala Malls Vertis North for a fun afternoon of delicious meals and specialized “puppuccinos.”
Price Range:
- Le’Barkery at Ayala Malls Manila Bay: ₱240 to ₱600
- PAWS Pet Cafe: ₱500 minimum purchase
It’s the perfect way to share a special treat, snap cute photos, and celebrate your furry best friend surrounded by fellow pet lovers!
2. Celebrate with a luxurious pet hotel and resort getaway.
Image Credit: Seda Nuvali Facebook
If a quick meal out feels too short for the occasion, upgrade your celebration to an all-inclusive staycation or weekend trip. Book a stay at pet-friendly hotels like Seda Nuvali and other Seda hotels or Somerset Central Salcedo Makati.
These establishments offer dedicated pet-friendly programs that welcome dogs and cats for just an additional fee, with comfortable suites, thoughtful amenities, and attentive service throughout your stay. Just remember to book at least 48 hours in advance, as pet-friendly rooms often require early reservation.
If your dog loves the outdoors, Acuaverde Beach Resort in Batangas provides a beachside sanctuary where your pup can run on the sand and swim in the ocean.
Price Range:
- Seda Hotels: Pet fee of ₱2,500 per night per pet or ₱35,000 monthly per pet with 10% discount for FurPAL passengers
- Somerset Central Salcedo Makati: Pet fee ranging from ₱1,500 to ₱2,000 per night per pet
- Acuaverde Beach Resort: Cleaning fee of approximately ₱1,200 for up to two pets in pet-friendly rooms
3. Pamper your pooch with a relaxing spa day.
Image Credit: Pawsome Pet Lounge Facebook
Show your loyal companion unconditional love this International Dog Day by giving them a dedicated relaxation and wellness experience at a professional dog spa.
More than simple grooming, a spa day treats your dog to deep-cleaning baths, stress-relieving massages, and breed-specific styling that prevents painful coat matting. The Hungry Paws PH (with over 21 branches nationwide), The Pawsome Pet Lounge at Ayala Malls The 30th, and Dogs and the City at Ayala Malls Manila Bay are some of the great places to go for a dog spa day.
Alternatively, if you just need a quick glow-up or stress-free prep before your dog’s big day, the Pettr Grooming Truck can bring fully equipped, professional mobile grooming straight to your home.
Price Range: ₱500 to ₱2,500+ depending on the spa package, dog size, and add-ons like medicated baths, de-shedding, or styling
4. Find specialized services for every need.
Image Credit: Canlubang Canine Club Instagram
Celebrating International Dog Day can also mean investing in services that directly improve your dog’s long-term happiness, behavior, and well-being.
Professional training is one of the best gifts you can give your dog, as it builds mutual trust while shaping good habits for years to come. You can opt for force-free training sessions with Canlubang Canine Club to strengthen your communication and help your dog feel secure in any environment.
Pro Tip: Training schools often require showing updated vaccination records to ensure a safe environment for all pets. Keep track of your dog’s vaccine history, vet appointments, and medical records effortlessly using the Pettr app, so you always have their essential health credentials ready on your phone!
Price Range: ₱500 to ₱10,000+, depending on the service (group training, private training, or a multi-session behavior program)
5. Give back through volunteerism and donations for shelter dogs.
If you have time to spare, consider signing up as a volunteer or visiting shelter facilities like the PAWS Animal Rehabilitation Center (PARC) in Katipunan, Quezon City. Spending quality time socializing with shelter dogs helps prepare them for adoption into loving forever homes.
Alternatively, if you’re unable to visit in person, you can still make a huge difference right from your phone. On the GlobeOne App, convert your accumulated Globe Rewards points into direct donations for PAWS, instantly supporting shelter animals.
Planning Your Dog’s Perfect Day
There’s no single right way to celebrate International Dog Day. A quiet cafe date can mean just as much to your pup as a resort weekend or a fresh haircut.
Since pet-friendly spots fill up fast around August, planning ahead keeps the day stress-free. Browse menus and reserve stays with ease through a reliable GFiber Postpaid plan, or get fast speeds with no monthly commitment with GFiber Prepaid. When it’s time to lock in that staycation or spa slot, GCash lets you send a quick, hassle-free down payment online; no credit card needed.
Once the day arrives, stay ready to catch every tail wag and beach splash. Subscribe to prepaid promos or lean on your postpaid plan to upload photos, stream reels, and broadcast your pet's special day in real time.
Dogs give us their loyalty every single day. August 26 is just our chance to give a little of that back. Happy International Dog Day!
