CHICAGO (WLS) -- Every year in the U.S., thousands of animals go unwanted and are sometimes euthanized to keep the pet population under control.
In 2005, animal welfare advocate Colleen Page created National Mutt Day. It's celebrated twice a year, on July 31 and Dec. 2.
The idea behind National Mutt Day is to celebrate and save mixed breed dogs. Mixed breed dogs tend to be healthier, better behaved and live longer than pure bred dogs.
On July 31, shelters around Chicago are hoping to adopt hundreds of pets. They're also accepting $5 donations to help save, spay and neuter neglected animals.
Dr. Tony Kremer of Kremer Veterinary Services visited ABC7 leading up to National Mutt Day with a few dogs in desperate need of homes.
National Mutt Day
July 31
To learn how to adopt, donate or volunteer, visit HelpSavePets.org.