Thursday is National Puppy Day!

The day is a chance to celebrate all the adorable pups in your life - and also about finding forever homes for dogs who need it.

March 23 was established as National Puppy Day in 2006 with the goal of not only celebrating puppies, but also encouraging people to adopt them in the hopes of putting an end to the cruel practice of puppy mills and farms. "Adopt, don't shop" is the message.

SPCA Westchester in Briarcliff Manor alone gets more than 1,800 dogs and cats a year to try and adopt out. Some are strays from local communities, but SPCA Westchester also has a transport/rescue program to take in animals from all over the country. "Every animal that comes in, they're quarantined and isolated. We then microchip, give them a good vet check where they get vaccines and spayed and neutered. So, they're with us a good two weeks, and that gives us time to get to know them and their personality before they're placed up for adoption. That way we can make the best match," says Lisa Bonnano, of SPCA Westchester.

For various reasons, not everyone is able to adopt a dog or cat - but don't let that stop you from getting involved with furry friends. SPCA is different from ASPCA and doesn't get federal or local funding. "We really depend on our local community for support whether it's monetary donations or in kind. We always need food, toys, blankets, pillows, everything you can think of. We always have so many great volunteer positions where you're working with the dogs and cats or helping the staff with other things," says Bonnano.

Whether you want to adopt or just get involved, the folks at SPCA Westchester say come by anytime.