National Service Dog Month – Sep. 1, 2026

Expected National Service Dog Month Deals

Throughout National Service Dog Month, many organizations and retailers pivot from direct sales to fundraising and appreciation programs. Look for major pet supply retailers like PetSmart and Petco to partner with service dog charities, offering donation-matching programs at checkout or special promotions where a portion of sales benefits training schools. Pet food brands such as Purina and Hill’s Science Diet often sponsor service dog organizations, providing food donations or public awareness campaigns. Specialized gear companies like Ruffwear may offer discounts on harnesses and vests for service dog handlers. Non-profit training centers such as Canine Companions for Independence and The Seeing Eye will host virtual or in-person events to raise funds and educate the public. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as September approaches.

History of National Service Dog Month

Throughout the past decades, human beings have been suffering from different medical conditions that may interfere with their quality of life. Some of these ailments include blindness, autism, hearing issues, seizures, and mental disorders. Some conditions require humans to opt for physical assistance. However, as the world progressed, numerous researchers realized that an ailment does not have to affect one’s quality of life. Nor does it make a human being dependent on others. All they need is a well-trained service dog that will not only be their best friend, but also their biggest support. The purpose of service dogs is to provide companionship, protect, and serve their humans. To bring to light how important service dogs are, National Service Dog Month was formed in 2008.

The idea of this appreciation month was the brainchild of actor Dick Van Patten, who was awestruck by the tremendous help service dogs had given to humans with certain ailments. To further the cause, he also launched a fundraising initiative to benefit these dedicated pups who worked hard every day in service dog training schools. He also became an honorary board member of the Guide Dogs Of The Desert. This led to a chain reaction and gradually, fundraising efforts during National Service Dog Month were made across the U.S.

Dog training schools not only help in creating helpers for humans but also save the lives of many dogs who would otherwise spend their entire lives trapped in shelters. Service dogs are also protected under the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA).

How Businesses Can Celebrate National Service Dog Month