International Dog Day: Big Issue readers share their favourite dog ...

26 Aug 2023

Big Issue

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International Dog Day celebrates the bond between humans and their four-legged friends. Here are some of your stories.

International Dog Day - Figure 1 — Photo Big Issue

It’s International Dog Day! This event – marked on 26 August each year – celebrates the life-affirming bond between humans and their four-legged friends.

Dogs give us unconditional love and loyalty, provide company and comfort, yet ask for very little in return.

They are essential companions to Big Issue vendors across the UK, offering vital support and company as vendors earn a living through selling the magazine.

International Dog Day - Figure 2 — Photo Big Issue

To celebrate International Dog Day 2023, we asked readers to tell us what their canine family members mean to them.

Pete B shouted out Bramble, his Lakeland Terrier and a “pioneering canine paddleboarder”.

Bramble. Image: Pete B

“Bramble has been an indispensable part of our family life these past 11 years having found her to cure our kids’ fear of dogs,” he said.

International Dog Day - Figure 3 — Photo Big Issue

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Other readers remembered the pets that they have lost. Lynne Marsters paid tribute to Flash, who passed away at age 14 last year.

International Dog Day - Figure 4 — Photo Big Issue

Flash. Image: Lynne Marsters

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“My husband didn’t want a dog really. Almost 15 wonderful years of this funny, loving, stubborn, greedy, mischievous dog made him a dog lover,” she said.

“He broke his heart the day we had him put to sleep. He adores our other two dogs.”

International Dog Day - Figure 5 — Photo Big Issue

The relationship between dogs and humans is special, which is why they become such an essential part of our lives.

Brody. Credit: @72_Jake

“Brody – my boy. I spent 50 years of my life not really understanding the attraction of dogs having always been a cat person,” wrote @72_Jake.

“I have a good life and he has enhanced it beyond my wildest dreams.”

International Dog Day - Figure 6 — Photo Big Issue

Elizabeth Corkhill echoed this sentiment, describing her “beautiful wee stinker Ruby” as “life-enhancing”.

Ruby. Image: Elizabeth Corkhill

International Dog Day was created in 2004 by animal advocate Colleen Paige. Paige chose 26 August as it was the date that her family adopted their first dog ‘Sheltie’ from a shelter.

Romanian rescue adopted by Doug Small. Image: Doug Small

This annual day is now celebrated around the world – including by Big Issue readers.

International Dog Day - Figure 7 — Photo Big Issue

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“Harry is a loyal furry friend who brings a smile to my face just by being his adorable self,” said Leoni from Tel Aviv.

Harry. Image: Leoni, Tel Aviv

“Whenever I’m in need of a cuddle, this big boy is right by my side to brighten my day.”

International Dog Day - Figure 8 — Photo Big Issue

Do you have a story to tell or opinions to share about this? We want to hear from you. Get in touch and tell us more.

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