National Aspin Day: Honoring the Loyal Asong Pinoy

National Aspin Day, celebrated every August 18, shines a spotlight on one of the most beloved and resilient Filipino dog breeds: the Aspin, short for “Asong Pinoy”. Organized by the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), this day recognizes the intelligence, loyalty, and love Aspins offer. Here’s how you and your furbaby can join in this exciting celebration in 2024.

National Aspin Day 2024 Celebrations

This year’s National Aspin Day promises to be a grand celebration, with PAWS collaborating with Ayala Malls Vertis North to create an event dedicated to Aspins and their owners. The event is packed with exciting activities, games, and opportunities to learn more about the breed and responsible pet ownership.

Participants will have the chance to win fantastic prizes, including staycations at Novotel and Seda, cozy doggy beds from Dogs & More, and many other rewards. Simply registering for the event automatically enters participants into the raffle. 

Registration for you and your furbaby is only PHP 500 and already includes a National Aspin Day umbrella, T-shirt, dog bandana, and entrance to the premium pet buffet. You can register for National Aspin Day 2024 at the PAWS website.

What Is The Meaning Of Aspin?

The term “Aspin” is a blend of two Filipino words: “Aso”, meaning dog and “Pinoy”, a colloquial term for Filipino. Together, “Aspin” translated to “Filipino dog.” The name was coined by PAWS in 2007 to uplift the image of these native dogs, which were previously known as “askals” or “asong kalye” (street or stray dogs). The name change was a deliberate effort to shift public perception from seeing these dogs as strays to recognizing them as beloved pets embodying the resilience and spirit of Filipinos.

History of National Aspin Day

The first National Aspin Day was celebrated on August 18, 2021. PAWS Executive Director Anna Cabrera highlighted the importance of this day in a video message released on Facebook. 

“Today, August 18, is the very first National Aspin Day where the spotlight on the asong pinoy, intelligent, loving, and while often overlooked and often considered as the underdog, has so much love to give,” Cabrera stated.

The celebration of Aspins is long overdue. Historically, these short-haired native dogs were referred to as askals or asong kalye, a term carrying a negative connotation, often leading to these dogs being perceived as inferior to purebred dogs. 

Purebreds are typically pampered, living inside homes, eating specialized dog food, and receiving regular grooming and medical care. Meanwhile, native dogs are often relegated to the role of guard dogs, chained at the gates, fed leftovers, and neglected when sick. By rebranding them as Aspins, PAWS aimed to instill pride in our native dogs, emphasizing their unique qualities and the love they have to offer.

Cabrera shared that when PAWS began offering stray dogs for adoption in 2001, the idea was met with skepticism. “Majority laughed at the idea that anyone would be willing to pay an adoption fee to adopt an askal,” she recalled. Today, more Filipinos are welcoming the Aspin into their homes as part of the family. 

How to Celebrate National Aspin Day

Aside from taking part in the celebrations at Ayala Vertis North, you can join the festivities by:

Sharing on social media - Use your social media platforms to share your Aspin’s story. Highlight their unique qualities, post photos, and use hashtags like #NationalAspinDay and #LoveYourAspin to spread awareness. 

Supporting local dog adoption programs  - Consider donating to or volunteering at animal shelters that work to rescue and rehome Aspins. Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of these dogs.

Hosting a gathering -  Invite fellow Aspin owners and their dogs for a small get-together. You can organize games, share treats, and enjoy a day of fun with your four-legged friends.

Pamper your aspin  -  Treat your Aspin to a special day with premium pet care products. Follow our bath hacks for pets and give them a bath using pet-friendly products like Happy Life Organics. Afterward, let them relax on a cozy bed and shower them with love and attention.

Treat Your Aspin As Family

National Aspin Day is a perfect time to support these wonderful dogs. Whether you’re adopting an Aspin, participating in an event, or simply spreading the word, every action counts. Let’s all come together to celebrate National Aspin Day and give these amazing dogs the recognition they truly deserve. After all, they’re not just pets—they’re family.