-
Celebrate International Dog Day 2023
August 26, 2023
PRESS RELEASE
Every year, on August 26th, a global celebration takes place that’s sure to make tails wag and hearts melt – International Dog Day!
Dogs have been loyal companions to humans for thousands of years.
With their unconditional loyalty and companionship, canines play a huge part in our personal and professional lives.
For International Dog Day, we’re sharing one of the many touching stories involving emergency services dogs and their handlers.
Introducing Police Dog Bounty
Police officers are amongst the many people honouring the special canines in their lives today.
To celebrate International Dog Day, NSW Police has shared the story of the bond between NSW Police Dog Bounty, and his handler, Senior Constable Nasr.
PD Bounty is one of NSW Police’s very own general-purpose home-bred police dogs and his working relationship with SC Nasr seems like a tale (or tail) of fate.
Where it began
In May 2020, SC Nasr was a Dog Development Assistant teaching puppies how to be police dogs, when he was called on to escort a heavily pregnant German Shepherd from the Dog Unit to the vet.
A short time later, SC Nasr witnessed the birth of eight puppies – one of them just happened to be Bounty, but it was still a little while until their paths crossed again.
He’s now an accredited NSW Police Dog Handler, having successfully passed an 18-week intensive training course.
After passing, SC Nasr was paired with the one and only Police dog-in-training, Bounty!
Bounty as a puppy (credit: NSWPF) Working relationship
They completed their accreditations together, with Bounty graduating as a fully-accredited General Purpose Police Dog.
Training and Development Manager of the Dog and Mounted Command, Chief Inspector Craig James, paid tribute to the hard-working team.
“For over a year now, the team has been searching for and tracking people across the state, reinforcing a bond that cannot be broken,” Ch Insp James said.
SC Nasr with PD Bounty (credit: NSWPF) International Dog Day
International Dog Day, first celebrated in 2004, was founded by animal advocate and behaviourist Colleen Paige.
Paige’s mission was to raise awareness about the countless dogs in need of rescue and adoption around the world.
While aiming to shed light on the plight of shelter dogs, strays, and those in less fortunate circumstances, she also wanted to celebrate the love and companionship dogs bring to our lives.
Today, International Dog Day is celebrated globally; with many places hosting special events honouring our beloved canine companions!
Reasons why life is so much better with a dog
√Unconditional love Dogs love us without judgment, no matter our flaws or circumstances. Their affectionate nature reminds us of the simple joy of companionship.
√Endless joyWhether it’s their wagging tails, goofy antics, or heart-melting puppy eyes, dogs have an innate ability to bring smiles to our faces, even on the toughest days.
√Emotional support Dogs provide comfort and emotional support, offering a listening ear (or a wagging tail) when we need it most. Their presence can alleviate stress and anxiety.
√Adventurous partnersFrom leisurely strolls in the park to exhilarating hikes, dogs are always up for an adventure, encouraging us to stay active and explore the world around us.
√Therapeutic benefits Dogs have been shown to have positive effects on mental and physical health. They can lower blood pressure, reduce feelings of loneliness, and boost overall well-being.
READ MORE FROM ANIMAL FRIENDLY LIFE