Three canine holidays in May are close to my heart: National Mother Dog Day (for obvious reasons), International Chihuahua Appreciation Day (see my Chiweenie, Lucy, in the photo!) and National Dog Day of rescue. Although my two daughters, Emmy and Lucy, now rest comfortably in my house on their oversized beds, they once had no home. At the height of the Covid pandemic, Emmy was abandoned at a school about an hour from my house. One of the teachers (my friend’s aunt) noticed a white, scruffy, furry dog on campus at all hours. She kindly took the dog to the vet, confirmed with the small community that there was no responsible dog parent, and through social media efforts, Emmy made it to our family. She loves to “talk” with us (image-elle) and is a happy and playful 3 year old puppy. Rescue isn’t an option for everyone, but if you ever have the chance to care for a homeless dog, it’s an incredibly rewarding experience.
May is also Westminster Kennel Club dog show month and we’ve listed all the events, dates and links, so you don’t miss any furtastic action. Participating in dog shows is not as intimidating as it seems; it’s a fun way to bond with your dog. Almost any breed of dog (purebred or mixed) can participate and there are a variety of events for all sizes and personality types. Learn more about options for your dog and how to participate in local dog shows.
Planning to attend canine events near you? Send us photos of your pup to be featured on our social media pages.
Or email us at dogstermag@belvoir.com.
May 2023 monthly dog leave
Chip Your Pet month
national pet month
Responsible Pet Sitter Month
dog holiday may 2023
May 3:National Day of Pets with Disabilities
Can 7:Mayday for Mutts
Can 7-13:National Pet Week ; Be Kind to Animals Week
Can 8:National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day
Can 13:National Dog Moms Day
May 14:International Chihuahua Appreciation Day
May 20:National Rescue Dog Day
May 2023 Canine Events
Throughout the month of May 2023: American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO) National Service Animal Eye Examination. The 14th annual event takes place in 200 cities across the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and Hong Kong to provide free eye exams during the month of May for service and working animals.
May 2 – 3, 2023: Amazon Pet Day. For 48 hours, enjoy deals on thousands of pet products and supplies on Amazon.com. In addition to the deals, Amazon Pets is donating over $100,000 to a number of local nonprofits that support animal welfare. For more information, read this Amazon Pet Day 2023 FAQ.
May 5-7, 2023: Paws Chicago Spring Adopt-A-Thon. The 11th annual adopt-a-thon features a variety of pets, including several litters of kittens, dogs rescued from storms and friendly older pets. Adoptions are by appointment; walk-ins are welcome but subject to availability of appointments. Held at PAWS Chicago Lincoln Park Adoption Center. View adoptable pets and schedule an adoption appointment at: www.pawschicago.org/adopt.
May 6, 2023: Coffee for Canids. Support Watson’s Wish Foundation, a non-profit organization that helps fund surgeries for dogs, while socializing and sipping coffee. This event will take place at the Third Wind Coffee Taproom at the Sunbury Station, 100 North 3rd Street in Sunbury, PA. Fun includes drink specials, a fundraising basket raffle, and a photographer taking pictures of the dogs and their humans.
May 6, 2023: Helen Woodward Animal Center’s 9th Annual Puppy Prom. This prom-themed reunion has brought together former orphaned pets and their families from “graduating classes” as far back as 2004. Once again, the event returns to welcome puppies decked out in delightful dog dresses, tuxedos , buttonholes and painted tabs. nails. The prom-themed party is free to all Helen Woodward Animal Center alumni and other guests who support the rescue. Junior and senior pooches can take part in age-old activities such as crowning a best-dressed “Prom King and Queen” ($15 per entry – ENTER HERE!) Hosted by Original 40 Brewing Company – 3117 University Ave, San Diego , THAT.
May 6, 2023: 8th Annual Masters of Obedience Championships in Westminster. Test the dogs’ ability to comply with handler’s commands. Purebred and mixed-breed dogs compete against each other. Held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens, NY. Visit westminster.kennelclub.org for more information.
May 6, 2023: Masters Agility Championship at Westminster. Brought to you by Purina Pro Plan. Timed competition test for dogs’ ability to compete in obstacle courses by following handler’s signals. Purebred and mixed breed dogs compete against each other. Held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens, NY. Visit westminster.kennelclub.org for more information.
May 8-9, 2023: 147th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Presented by Pro Plan. Hound, Toy, Non-sporting, Herding Breeds and Variety Groups compete Monday, May 8; Sporting, Working, Terrier Breeds and Variety Band compete on Tuesday the 9th. Junior Showmanship Finals and Best in Show on Tuesday the 9th. Held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens, NY. Visit westminster.kennelclub.org for more information.
May 26, 2023: Frankenmuth dog bowl. Olympic Festival for dogs with activities such as doc diving, disc competitions, sausage races, pet parades and more. Held at the Frankenmuth River Place Shops in Frankenmuth, MI. For more information, click here.
Want to see what dog holidays are coming in 2023? Check Dogster’s Dog Vacation Checklist.
