Dog Days

Here we are well into the month of July with the 'dog days of summer' upon us - HOT and humid! Of course, we are not literally going to the dogs nor are dogs the actual limelight. Our pooches are locked in fur coats 24/7/365, however, and  must be well taken care of, which will be later addressed.

What are the 'dog days of summer' and their connection to dogs?

The sultry days of summer from the first week in July to the second week in August are commonly referred to as 'dog days'. According to Wikipedia, The Old Farmer's Almanac lists the traditional period of the Dog Days as the 40 days beginning July 3 and ending August 11, coinciding with the ancient heliacal (at sunrise) rising of the Dog Star, Sirius. These are the days of the year with the least rainfall in the Northern Hemisphere.

The Ancient Greeks thought that Sirius's emanations could affect dogs adversely, making them behave abnormally during the hottest days of the summer. The Romans called Sirius by the name of Canicula, "little dog," thus dating the phrase dog days of summer back to ancient Rome. Dogs excessive panting during the sultry days of summer was thought to place them at risk of desiccation and disease.

Dog days is a translation of the Latin phrase dies caniculares. The ancient Romans applied this phrase to the hottest days of the summer when the star Sirius, the brightest star in the sky, comes up over the horizon at about the same time as the sun. Source: Merriam-Webster's Student Dictionary

The best place to be during these hot and sultry days is anywhere there is a cool breeze, whether man-made or provided by Mother Nature. In our dreams we stay cool but one step outside brings us immediately in tune with stark reality as sweat beads do not hesitate leaving their marks on make-up or freshly starched shirts! Sweat shows no mercy!!!

For the poochies, be sure they have plenty of fresh water and a shady place if kept outside. Remember, they do not get to pack up their fur coats at the end of winter.

Summer dangers for dogs... 

Summer brings unique risks to dogs, especially during 'dog days'. Keep their health at the top of your own personal list to avoid the perils of 

• Heat Stroke
• Sunburn
• Scorched Foot Pads
• Dehydration
• Campfires & Barbeques
• Fireworks
• Parasites
• Chemicals in Water
• Seasonal Allergies
• Getting Lost

There is fun in the sun but danger, too. Walk during the cooler hours of the day. Take care of yourself and your pet(s) so you can truly enjoy those lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer!

1963 - Nat King Cole

What is your favorite place during the 'dog days of summer'?

Image credit: Getty Images