On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, announcing the separation of the 13 American colonies from the British Empire—and the United States was born.
With the anniversary of America’s Independence Day, here’s a roundup of furry friends who were as excited about the Fourth of July as we were, along with some fun facts about the holiday.
Uncle Sam the chihuahua
Enjoying a relaxing Fourth of July at the park.
Fun fact: The Continental Congress voted in favor of independence from Great Britain on July 2, 1776, but did not actually adopt the Declaration of Independence until two days later, on July 4.
Patriotic Pomeranian
Have a fluffy Fourth of July.
Fun fact: The Declaration of Independence was drafted by a committee comprised of Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Roger Sherman, and Robert R. Livingston—but it was Posing proudly in his favorite colors. Jefferson who wrote most of the document, reports CNN.
Old Glory
Posing proudly in his favorite colors.
Fun fact: Thomas Jefferson revised “the pursuit of property” to “the pursuit of happiness” in the Declaration of Independence, according to CBS.
Parade pups
Across the country, millions of Americans will take part in Fourth of July parades—and so will these dogs!
Fun fact: On July 4, Aptos, California, will host what it has dubbed “The World’s Shortest Parade,” which spans just two city blocks—but the event is expected to last two hours.
Star-spangled kitty
Looking handsome in red, white, and blue.
Fun fact: Founding Fathers John Adams and Thomas Jefferson both died on July 4, 1826, the 50th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.
American bunny
Hoping someone brings carrots to the barbecue.
Fun fact: One of the first Independence Day celebrations was held in Bristol, Rhode Island, in 1777, and included a morning and evening 13-gun salute, according to the Independent.
Cake time
Happy birthday, America!
Fun fact: The Fourth of July was not made a paid federal holiday until 1938.
Dog bless America
Celebrating the Fourth of July with a walk in the park.
Fun fact: To celebrate Independence Day in 1778, George Washington, then commander-in-chief of the Continental Army, issued double rations of rum to all his soldiers.
Dapper dachshund
Dressed for the occasion with a big blue bowtie.
Fun fact: Nathan’s Famous International Hot Dog Eating Contest is an annual Fourth of July event held on Coney Island in New York City. Competitors have 10 minutes to eat as many hot dogs as possible for a chance to win a cash prize and the coveted Mustard Belt.
Stars, stripes, and sparkles
A dog who’s not afraid to go glam.
Fun fact: Most fireworks sold in the U.S. come from China. A total of $203.6 million in Chinese fireworks were imported in 2013, according to the Washington Post.