Every dog deserves a loving home, but for some shelter dogs, finding that special someone takes a little extra love. Older dogs, dogs with disabilities, and those with special needs are often overlooked when families consider adoption. These lovable companions, affectionately known as “Underdogs,” are at the heart of Subaru’s National Make a Dog’s Day, celebrated every October 22. Created by Subaru in 2019, this special holiday encourages people to make a difference in a dog’s life—whether through adoption, volunteering, donating, or simply showing a little extra kindness.

At Grand Subaru, we’re proud to bring that mission to life through our ongoing partnership with A.R.F. (Animal Rescue Foundation) and the Subaru Loves Pets® initiative. During our 2026 Pet Adoption Party, 15 dogs found loving homes, giving us 15 more reasons to celebrate National Make a Dog’s Day!

What Is National Make a Dog’s Day?

Created by Subaru in 2019, National Make a Dog’s Day is celebrated every October 22 as part of the Subaru Loves Pets® initiative. In 2026, Subaru is marking its eighth annual celebration and encouraging people to make their own dogs feel special while helping shelter dogs find loving homes. Subaru places particular emphasis on “Underdogs”—older and disabled dogs who can be overlooked in shelters. Whether through adoption, fostering, volunteering, or donating, the holiday is a reminder that every dog deserves love and a chance to thrive.

15 Adoptions. 15 New Beginnings.

For Grand Subaru, this year’s celebration feels especially meaningful. During our October Pet Adoption Party, 15 dogs found loving homes through the combined efforts of A.R.F., adoptive families, volunteers, and our community. Each adoption represents more than a number: it means a dog has a safe place to rest, someone to greet at the door, and a future filled with companionship.

We are grateful to everyone who came out, met the adoptable dogs, shared the event with friends, volunteered their time, or helped make the day possible. Most of all, thank you to the families who chose adoption and gave these dogs the next chapter they deserve.

A Community That Shows Up for Pets

Grand Subaru’s partnership with A.R.F. brings Subaru’s nationwide Subaru Loves Pets® commitment to life right here in our community. Subaru and its retailers work with local animal welfare organizations throughout October, supporting adoption events and resources that help shelter animals prepare for loving homes. Our Pet Adoption Party is one way we turn that shared commitment into meaningful local action.

The impact does not end when an event is over. Every adoption helps make room for continued rescue work, and every conversation about pet adoption can inspire another family to consider giving a shelter animal a chance.

How Can You Make a Dog’s Day?

• Consider adopting a dog when your household is ready for the long-term commitment.
• Support a local rescue such as A.R.F. through donations, supplies, or volunteering.
• Share adoptable pets with friends and family to help them reach more potential adopters.
• Treat your own dog to extra playtime, a walk, or quality time together.

Thank You for Helping Us Make a Difference

To A.R.F., our volunteers, the Grand Subaru team, and every member of the community who supported this year’s Pet Adoption Party: thank you. Together, we helped 15 dogs take the first step toward happier lives in loving homes.

On National Make a Dog’s Day, we hope you’ll join us in celebrating these 15 happy endings—and in remembering the many other dogs still waiting for theirs.

Learn more about local pet adoption and ways to help through A.R.F. and follow Grand Subaru for future Subaru Loves Pets community events.

Subaru’s National Commitment to Shelter Pets

According to Subaru of America, Subaru and its retailers have donated more than $75 million to national and local pet-focused organizations and supported the adoption, rescue, transport, and health of more than 900,000 animals. This National Make a Dog’s Day, Grand Subaru is proud to add 15 local adoption stories to that larger mission.