In case you haven’t noticed people talking about it on Facebook, Twitter and other social media, today is National Puppy day! This is a great way to get the word out about responsible pet adoption and the general cuteness of puppies.

Yup, each March 23rd is when this puppy-love celebration rolls around. But it is not just about sharing photos of cutie pups on social networks. In fact, the purpose of this day is a bit sadder than that. Though it is hard to believe, a lot of puppies end up orphaned and without a forever home. So, if you have been considering adding a new four-legged friend to your family, why not head down to a local shelter and make today that day!

Started by Colleen Paige in 2006, the day is also used to call attention to the horror of puppy mills. That is one of the reasons that it is so important to encourage adoptions from shelters and not these terrible places that crank out new litters like dogs are some sort of assembly line.

You can get more information on this day by checking out http://www.nationalpuppyday.com/

And for a good dose of cuteness, have a look at some cute puppy photos.