5 Ways to Celebrate National Dog Day in Bradenton and Sarasota

We take the time to celebrate moms on Mother's Day and dads on Father's Day, so it only seems fitting that we also celebrate the pups in our lives on National Dog Day taking place on August 26.

Here are the best places around Bradenton and Sarasota to make your dog feel special:

1. Dog Days at the Rays
Sunday, September 17 at 1:10 p.m.
Tropicana Field, 1 Tropicana Dr, St. Petersburg

Bring your best furry pal to watch the Tampa Bay Rays take on the Boston Red Sox for just $30. Extra humans are also welcome at this event for an additional $25. Tickets include a special treat for your four-legged Rays fan in honor of this annual event. Please note that you will need to sign a waiver to indicate that your dog's vaccinations are up to date.

2. Take a Class at Puppy Kindergarten
K9 Korral, 2001 Princeton St, Sarasota
941.915.8181

The kids are heading back to school, so it only makes sense to send your fur baby off to kindergarten too. K9 Korral offers pet training classes — such as puppy kindergarten — that use fun and engaging tactics that teach your dog how to behave. Residents of our Springs at Bee Ridge apartments live within close proximity to K9 Korral, making this a convenient solution for doggy daycare.

3. Happy Tails Dog Park
51st St, Bradenton

Looking for a great dog park? Residents of our Springs at Palma Sola apartments in Bradenton don't have to go far as Happy Tails Dog Park is one of the best dog parks in Southwest Florida. This 3-acre off-leash dog park is fenced-in and offers plenty of space for your pup to run and have fun. There is a separate enclosed space within the park to accommodate small, fragile and senior dogs. The large trees throughout the park provide an abundance of shade, making this an enjoyable park to go to even on a hot summer day.

4. Pick Up a New Treat or Toy at Pet Supermarket
6908 Manatee Ave, Bradenton
941.761.0312

The Pet Supermarket in Bradenton has all of your dog's favorite foods and top-rated toys such as ChuckIt ball launchers and a variety of KONG toys. If you want to get your young children more comfortable with your young pup, the Pet Supermarket offers an Interactive Pet Care Training for Kids class.

5. Adopt a New Pup
Humane Society of Manatee County, 2515 14th St, Bradenton
941.747.8808

In honor of National Dog Day, why not help a pup in need by bringing one home from the Humane Society of Manatee County? Adoptions are available every Tuesday through Saturday, and you can view the adoptable dogs by visiting the organization's website. There are also several ways to volunteer.

How do you plan to celebrate National Dog Day? Share in the comments below.