National Black Dog Day!

Did you know that National Black Dog Day is recognized every October 1st? Today we celebrate these beautiful canines who sadly face discrimination.

We might be a little biased at Rhode Island Pet Network, considering two of our directors have black dogs of our own. It breaks our hearts to think of how many good boys and girls linger in shelters around the state simply because of their color!

Why are black dogs more likely to be passed over? There are several theories, and the phenomenon has persisted for years.

One is as simple as the composition of photos. Black dogs can be more difficult to photograph in certain lighting. In a sea of adoptable animal pictures on our timelines, black dogs simply blend more into the background.

There is also a subconscious bias that might occur. Some people erroneously believe that black dogs are more prone to aggressive behavior. With all these odds against them, black dogs face the lowest adoption rate and the highest euthanasia risk in shelters around the world.

We’re here to remind you that black dogs make AMAZING pets! You likely can find one in every municipal shelter and even more being fostered with rescues around Rhode Island. Be sure to sing their praises, and if you find space in your home and heart, adopt one today!