International Puppy Day

Monday, 23 March is International Puppy Day which means it's time to celebrate and appreciate the pawsitively cutest furry friends around.

President of the Dogs' Refuge Home, Karen Rhodes says International Puppy Day is the perfect time to remember how many precious pups are currently looking for safe and loving homes.

"Every year we take in many hundreds of dogs; those that have been badly abused and neglected; those that have been loved but can no longer be cared for; and those that are simply unwanted," Karen says.

"Puppies are undoubtedly cute, but they are also a big commitment, which we need to remember. We are here not only to find wonderful forever homes for our pups, but to also educate new puppy parents on what to expect when you are expecting … a puppy," Karen continues.

Karen shares her knowledge below on making sure you're ready to take the leap and become a puppy pawrent:

1. Do your research. You can find lots of information about the adoption process and things you need to consider before adopting a puppy on the internet. It's a big decision and a lifelong commitment to your new pooch so read as much as you can about what to expect. You can also view our dogs on our website prior to coming in, but there's nothing quite like meeting your new potential canine friend in person.

2. Complete a doggy adoption questionnaire. It's very important to ensure your lifestyle and home environment will be compatible with your potential new pups needs. Once you've completed an adoption questionnaire, you can meet with one of our adoption staff and find out if a puppy is a good match for you.

3. Ensure all your family members and current pets meet the new pup before going through the adoption process. It's important to interact socially with your new dog and be certain that the choice you have made is the right one. This will mean all members who live in the home will be required to meet the dog prior to adoption. It is essential that prospective owners who already own a dog and/or cat bring them to the home for a compatibility test with their intended adoptee before the new dog will be released.

"I must note that crucially, we rely on donors to do our life-saving work. Without the generous support of the community and donations from dog loving people and businesses, like State of Social, we would not be able to provide the vital care needed to look after all the dogs that pass through our gates. Last year, State of Social and Meg Coffey raised an incredible $3,000 for the Dogs' Refuge Home and this year they hope to raise even more. As a self-funded organisation, donations from State of Social enable us to continue to save over 1,300 dogs every year," Karen says.

A bit about State of Social
Bottomless barista-brewed coffee, puppy cuddles, gourmet food and some of the biggest names in the world of digital and social strategy. This is what you can expect at State of Social '20, Australia's biggest, brightest and brainiest digital and social media marketing event.

Everything you thought you knew about social will be turned on its head with a list of thought-provoking thought leaders on the first day, followed by a series of stimulating seminars to supercharge your digital and social strategies on day two.

The Dog's Refuge Home is back at State of Social, so you can cuddle a furry little friend for a good cause. Gold coin donations will be accepted during the event so you can enjoy a lunchtime nuzzle with the Home's snuggliest sooks, while saving four-legged friends at the same time. If you fall in love with the pawfect puppy on the day, you can go through the adoption process at the event and take your furry little family member home with you.

Event Details
When: Tuesday 23 and Wednesday 24 June 2020
Where: Optus Stadium, Perth