National Dog Day

Did you know tomorrow is National Dog Day? Like all things do, this day reminds us of camp in Maine! When thinking of dogs and pets, you might not immediately think of camp, but at Maine Camp Experience (MCE), we know that dogs— and animals in general— can be a big part of our campers’ and counselors’ experiences.Many of our MCE directors have their own dogs that they bring to camp each summer. These dogs serve many a purpose, beyond just being an adorable presence around the camp! When Maine Camp Experience blogger Emma thinks about National Dog Day, she says, “I’m reminded of my camp director’s old bulldog, who would slowly roam around the camp all day. It was always so fun to catch a glimpse of him, and to give him a hug and even a treat. My director’s dog was almost like a special camp mascot each summer!” MCE blogger Ali has a similar experience with dogs from her Maine Camp and even adds that the dogs at her camp would often receive dedicated songs that were fan favorites in the dining room and around camp!For some, dogs can also serve as emotional support at camp. When campers are sad or homesick, dogs at camp can be fun, happy and uplifting, making our campers feel better.Of course, for our animal lover campers, there are more than just dogs at camp each summer. Many of our Maine Camps have fantastic equestrian programs for campers interested in horses. Whether campers have been riding horses for years, or simply interested in learning, camp can be a great place to do so. Many camps also offer programming that teaches campers to not only ride the horses but also care for them in the barn.Additionally, some of our Maine Camps have other great animal programs. Campers can help take care of chickens, goats, guinea pigs, pigs and bunnies, and learn what it means to lovingly care for an animal. Not only are these animals adorable, but they help teach campers a new skill and a valuable lesson! And, at MCE blogger Emma’s Maine Camp, she even got to learn and look at species of birds, or insects in their weekly Nature activity!At Maine Camp Experience camps, we love to brag about how much time our campers get to spend outdoors, experiencing nature. But we don’t often enough talk about the wonderful opportunities our campers have to connect with animals at camp! This National Dog Day, we urge you to ask your camper about their favorite animal memory from camp! — Maine Camp Experience Resources & Tools

You can share your own Maine camps memories & expressions of gratitude on our Memories of Camp section of our website.

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Next, be sure to  to discuss these camps as well as for free, year-round advice and assistance on choosing a great Maine summer camp for your child.