5 Places to Take Your Dog for National Dog Day

August 26 is National Dog Day, when dog lovers from all over are encouraged to celebrate man's best friend with some extra love.

National Dog Day was founded in 2004 by pet expert and author Colleen Paige, who encourages people to adopt dogs from shelters and/or donate $5 to their local shelters. "In every heart there is an empty space... in every shelter, there is love in which to fill it... Adopt some love this day and every day," Paige writes on her website.

Local shelters include the Town of Smithtown shelter and the Town of Islip shelter.

Here are some ideas for places to take your pet today:

1. Blydenburgh Dog Park, located in Blydenburgh Park on Nesconset Highway in Hauppauge. The park is a two-acre off-leash park with separate areas for large dogs and small dogs. It's open from 8 a.m. to sunset and requires a green key pass.

2. Petsmart in Nesconset, located at 3050 Nesconset Highway, is a haven for pet food, treats, toys and even grooming and training.

3. Not too far away, in Stony Brook, Avalon Park has a trail up to the labyrinth that is great for exercising with your dog. The park is located at the corner of Harbor Road and Main Street.

4. In nearby Smithtown, Bill Richards Memorial Park located at Veterans Memorial Highway and Raynors Way has a trail around a lake that's dog friendly.

5. About seven miles away in Bay Shore, you'll find Gardiner County Park at Montauk Highway and Manor Lane. The park has several on-leash trails and a water fountain just for dogs.