From working dogs, to house pets, to those in shelters waiting for a home, no matter the size or the amount of fur, Friday is National Dog Day, honoring human's best friend.

The day was started by Colleen Paige, a pet and family lifestyle expert, in 2004, according to the National Dog Day website.

The group offers some ideas on how to celebrate the day, including adopting a dog from a shelter; donating blankets, food and other items to a rescue group; or conducting a home safety check to ensure a dog's safety.

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Jo'wan Bellamy taught in the GNETS program for 17 years and recently transferred to Atlanta’s new behavioral program at Crawford Long Middle School. (Arvin Temkar/AJC)

Credit: arvin.temkar@ajc.com