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It’s long been known that dogs are man’s best friend, so it will come as no surprise that there is an entire day, which is dedicated to our canine companions. Now in its 15th year, National Dog Day is celebrated annually on August 26th to highlight the number of rescue dogs in need of a forever home, while also recognising the love dogs bring into people’s lives.

While there are already over *4.8 million dogs owners in Australia, dog ownership is on the rise with 600,000 new dogs finding homes between 2013 and 2016. Clearly a nation of dog-lovers, you don’t need to be a dog owner to celebrate this national day or enjoy all the benefits of a four-legged friend.

According to house and pet sitting company TrustedHousesitters, dog sitting has grown in popularity across the UK and globally in recent years. Angela Laws, Community Manager of TrustedHousesitters says: “Between 2018 and 2019, we have seen an 18% increase in the number of dog sits available in Australia and a 35% increase globally which shows just how popular dog sitting is becoming as a new travel trend.

“It’s the perfect way for dog lovers, longing for the company of a canine companion, to sit and stay in a home away from home in the company of some adorable dogs. With members in over 130 countries, we are creating connections across the world while helping to keep more dogs happy at home when their owners travel.”

Dog lovers like Ann Repp from Denmark, are among the thousands of sitters spending National Dog Day in the company of other people’s dogs.

“Traveling has been a part of my life since I was old enough to grab a backpack and go exploring. I have always been a huge dog lover and not having my own dog is the only thing I really miss living life on the road, dog sitting lets me have the best of both worlds and has given me a bit of the sweet life with loving dogs, even though saying goodbye to my new best four legged friends at the end of a sit can be a little heartbreaking. Joining TrustedHousesitters has enabled me to keep living my dream life on the road and still get slices of home life around the globe. I love being part of this community”

To celebrate National Dog Day, we’ve rounded up some of the most adorable dogs and their exceptional homes both here in Australia and overseas available on TrustedHousesitters. Whether you’re after a city escape in Melbourne, a relaxing retreat on the Sunshine Coast or a getaway in the hills of Italy, these beautiful homes will guarantee dog-loving travellers an unforgettable experience in the company of some seriously adorable new friends.