National Friendship Day
The US Congress proclaimed National Friendship Day as an official celebratory tradition way back in 1935. It was meant to recognize the camaraderie built among nations after the First World War and to honor the friendship formed between the people. It didn’t take long before other countries started taking part in the annual celebration, and what initially began as a national event eventually became an internationally observed tradition held on every first Sunday of August.
Now that you know a little bit about the history of National Friendship Day, it’s time to figure out how to spend it. The big day is right around the corner, and if you’re running a little low on ideas, then you’ve come to the right place!
When you think about National Friendship Day, the first thing that probably comes to mind is to send a text message over to your closest buddies, and maybe invite them over for a drink or two. However, maybe someone furrier deserves to spend National Friendship Day with you this year. That’s right! National Friendship Day can also be a great bonding opportunity for you and your dog. They are man’s best friend, right?
Make National Friendship Day Memorable
National Friendship Day only happens once a year, so it’s important to make every second count! You can create a list of things you and your dog can do together on this special day to make sure you don’t miss anything. Try to think outside the box. Include activities that aren’t part of your daily routine, or better yet, things you’ve never done together before. This will make National Friendship Day a memorable experience for you and your furry companion.
Things You Can Do to Make the Day Extra Special
Make A Special Breakfast
What better way to start a special day than with a special breakfast! Remember, National Friendship Day is a day when you can freely spoil yourself and your dog. So, don’t be afraid to cook something you’ve never cooked before—make sure it’s dog-friendly, of course—and enjoy it with your fur baby before you carry on with the day.
Here are a few wonderful, dog-friendly breakfasts from Showbiz Cheat Sheet and Rachael Ray:
- Spinach Omelet
- Meat and Potatoes Hash
- Chicken BLT
- Cheesy Zucchini Frittata
- Salmon Cakes
Enjoy A Delicious, Dog-Friendly Dessert Together
Desserts aren’t typically part of any dog’s daily meals, but that’s all the more reason to have them enjoy one with you on National Friendship Day! Indulgent desserts have always been a part of celebrations and this day shouldn’t be any different. In fact, desserts are excellent energy boosters! They’ll perk you and your furry friend right up and prepare you for the fun day ahead!
Here are some dog-friendly desserts from Doggy Dessert Chef you may want to try:
- Frozen Peanut Butter Pineapple Bites
- Easy Peasy Banana Biscuits
- Oatmeal Peanut Butter Squares
- Pecan Pie
- Gingerbread Biscotti
Go Swimming
If you and your dog share a love for being in the water, then going for a swim will be a great bonding moment for both of you. Ditch your usual swimming spot for now and take this day as an opportunity to venture out and explore a place you’ve never been to before. You can go online, and look for a pet-friendly resort near you or even a beach you’ve never visited. Don’t hold back! Today is all about you and your furry friend.
Go Hiking
If swimming doesn’t necessarily float your boat and you’d much rather be on dry land, then you can always go hiking! Most dogs, especially bigger breeds, are always up for a good hike. It’s an excellent workout and bonding activity. We’re sure your furry friend will enjoy every second of it!
Hiking is an excellent activity for lovers of nature, and can actually help reduce stress levels, especially if you’re someone who’s always cooped up in an office. It’s scientifically proven to reduce negative feelings and improve your physical well-being. So, going on a hike with your dog will not only strengthen your bond with them but also make both of you feel better afterward.
Go On a Spa Day Together
Yeah, you read that right! You and your dog can have a spa day together! Believe it or not, but there a plenty of pet-friendly spas and resorts where you and your pooch can enjoy a pamper day together. Some of their services include dog massages, gourmet dog food, pawdicures, and even doggie facials! Amazing, right? Forget about having a regular spa day, it’s time to make reservations for two on National Friendship Day!
Here are a few pet-friendly spas and resorts:
- Lake Austin Spa Resort in Austin, Texas
- Red Mountain Resort & Spa in Ivins, Utah
- Nemacolin Woodlands Resort in Pennsylvania
- Arizona Biltmore Spa in Phoenix
- Eventi Hotel and Spa in New York
End The Day with A Snuggle Session
As the day comes to a close, nothing is more satisfying than to just sit on the couch as your furry friend snuggles up to you. These are the little moments we sometimes forget to appreciate, but in truth, actually, mean the most. Dogs are simple creatures and humans could learn a thing or two from them. Let’s enjoy the simple things in life and hit the paws-button every once in a while.
We hope you and your furry companion have a blast on National Friendship Day!
