Dogust, the Universal Birthday for Shelter Dogs, is observed annually on August 1st. It is the perfect excuse to shower your adopted best friend, who may not have a known birthday, with joy, treats, and new adventures. Today, I’m sharing my top 5 ways to celebrate your rescue dog on Dogust 1st. I love the idea that rescue dogs, whose history we often don’t know, get this special day to call their own!
Ice Cream Outing at Sweet Luna’s
Treat your pup to a celebratory ice cream at Sweet Lunas, a beloved local spot where many pet parents bring their dogs for a frozen treat. Inspired by a black lab named Luna, Sweet Luna’s is family and pet-friendly. Plus, the weather outside is perfect for a frozen dessert. Located right on Main Street in Old Saybrook, nothing says summer like a stroll over to Sweet Luna’s.
Shopping at The Feed Bag
For dogs that don’t need the extra calories or are on a special diet, visit to The Feed Bag to pick out a puzzle toy or snuffle mat that will not only enrich your dog’s mind, but also give them a lasting birthday gift. Puzzles and snuffle mats satisfy their natural instincts by engaging their senses and keeping them mentally stimulated when you’re not home. Don’t forget to grab up some freeze-dried single ingredient treats like Totally Hook’d freeze-dried whole minnows or herring. Sounds gross to us but the dogs love ’em!
Swimming at the Beach
A beach day at one of the Connecticut Shoreline’s dog-welcoming coastlines, such as Hammonasset Beach State Park in Madison, CT, or Jennings Beach in Fairfield, CT, offers your beloved rescue a chance to enjoy off-leash play, swimming, and socializing with other pups. A beach day can be a joyful outdoor celebration that both you and your dog will treasure, assuming your dog likes to swim and is comfortable with other dogs. Remember to read all beach rules and keep your dog on his or her leash until you’re sure they are allowed off-leash.
Dog Walks & Adventures with Shoreline Happy Paws
Sign your rescued bestie up for a dog walk or dog hiking adventure with Shoreline Happy Paws. Our experienced, caring team personalizes outdoor excursions for stimulation and exercise, letting dogs of all ages and fitness levels safely explore the world and make new friends. We are match dogs with the right group or walk them individually if they are better suited to solo adventures. No matter what you choose, your rescue dog will have the time of their lives with our team.
Donations to a Shelter or Rescue
Honor your rescue dog and those before him/her by making a donation to the shelter or rescue where you adopted them or a rescue in the CT Shoreline. Gather up some used pet equipment and accessories, blankets and towels, or purchase pet foods, pill pockets, and cleaning products, then go by and deliver them on your pet’s behalf.
If it’s easier, write the rescue or shelter a check or visit their Amazon wish list, so you know that your donation is exactly what they need. There’s no better way to celebrate your rescue dog than by helping others just like them!
5 Ways to Celebrate Your Rescue Dog on DOGust 1st
Most of our clients are exceptional dog parents who spoil their dogs every single day, not just on DOGust 1st. But, it’s fun to honor our furry companions with a token of our affection on this special day. A bit of quality time, a new bag of treats, or a nice long walk are sure to delight!
The Best Care for CT Shoreline Rescue Dogs
Shoreline Happy Paws is currently accepting new clients for dog walking, dog hiking, and cat sitting services! New Shoreline Happy Paws clients can create an account. We will be in touch to further discuss your needs and set you, your family, and your cat(s) up for success. Existing clients, please book services by logging in to your client profile.
We serve the following areas of the Connecticut Shoreline:
- Old Saybrook
- Essex, Ivoryton & Centerbrook
- Deep River
- Chester
- Westbrook
- Clinton
- Old Lyme
- East Lyme
- Niantic
Certain Parts and Certain Service Hours in:
- Lyme and Madison
- Waterford, New London, Groton
- Uncasville, Gales Ferry, Mystic, Noank


