On January 17, 2025, dog-loving Austinites will celebrate the city’s newest holiday: Matilda Day.
Earlier this month, Austin City Council Member José “Chito” Vela announced the special day, which honors the late rescue dog, Matilda, a beloved companion to local woman Amanda Stronza.
Matilda was a local internet sensation, with Stronza sharing vibrant photos and stories of the pup on social media until and after Matilda passed away at the age of 18 in 2023.
The holiday’s goal is to raise funds for the nonprofit Austin Pets Alive! and its work to provide support and care to senior animals. Last year, before the holiday was city-official, the organization raised over $21,000, surpassing its initial goal of $19,000, in honor of Matilda’s would-be 19th birthday.
This year, their goal is $20,000, representing Matilda’s birthday once again.
“I am so thrilled to see Matilda’s memory honored this way,” Stronza said in a statement. “She was deeply loved by so many, and it only makes sense to channel some of that love to pups who need it most, especially the senior dogs.”
This year’s fundraising campaign is again devoted to the care of senior dogs. Donors can contribute to feed a furry friend; provide two weeks’ worth of sheltering for a senior dog; cover the spay or neuter of a shelter animal; or even provide a wheelchair for paralyzed animals, giving them the opportunity to walk and socialize with others.
Most of all, though, Stronza hopes the holiday raises awareness about the needs of senior pets and promotes adoption for older animals.
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, senior dogs in shelters have a significantly lower adoption rate compared to younger dogs. While younger dogs have about a 60% adoption rate, senior dogs have an adoption rate of 25%, meaning they face the risk of euthanasia — or never finding a loving home.
The long-term goal, according to APA!, is to expand Matilda Day into a national event that inspires senior pet adoption across the country.
“My dream is something like Giving Tuesday, but for dogs,” Stronza wrote in an Instagram post, “a day devoted to extra care and love for senior pups in shelters.”
In a holiday dedication ceremony earlier this month, Vela and Stronza both spoke about the importance of caring for senior pets — especially those in shelters.
“While I was talking, I am pretty sure Matilda, her stardust, was Snoopy Dancing all over City Hall. I am so deeply grateful for the love of so many of you here, and for the magic of that moment,” Stronza shared on Instagram.
“Matilda’s impact through her life and legacy has helped countless lives of senior dogs at APA!,” Dr. Ellen Jefferson, President and CEO of Austin Pets Alive! said in a statement.
“Her legacy shows us what’s possible when a community comes together to care for the animals who need us most. But there are still countless senior pets waiting for their chance. On Matilda Day, let’s honor her memory by turning compassion into action for our companion animals.”
Header image courtesy of Amanda Stronza
