The Sunshine Report Enjoying This Great Time of Year! 'Karen and Jay share thoughts on the ‘dog days of summer’ and the special role dogs play in our lives.' Here we are in August as the ‘dog days of summer’ are beginning to wind down. Whether it be in a movie, book, or in a regular conversation, you’ve probably heard this phrase - the ‘dog days of summer’ or sometimes referred to as the ‘dog days of August.’ But do you know what it refers to or what it actually means? Or if it has anything to do with dogs? Well, the phrase comes from the world of astrology when the star Sirius, the brightest star in the constellation Canis Major (meaning ‘big dog’ in Latin), rises with the sun during the months of July and August. Ancient Greeks and Romans were said to have believed that the heat from both the sun and Sirius made this period the hottest of the year. Thus, the ‘dog days of summer!’ Over time of course, the phrase has naturally come to take on a meaning of its own. When I think of the dog days of summer, I don’t think of a constellation, instead I am immediately reminded of warm summer days with my dog Sparky and generally, my love of dogs. After rescuing him from a shelter, Sparky became my best friend for 14 years. An overweight mutt, Sparky was the friendliest and kindest dog I’d ever met. He was also fiercely loyal to the extent that my daughter Morgan once told me that when I would leave on a business trip, he’d stay by the door waiting for me to get home – even if it meant, staying by the door all week. And when I had a tough day, he’d show his love, immediately changing my attitude. Anyone who has had a dog will tell you that they are the embodiment of positive energy. On top of their loyalty, they tend to be incredibly selfless and kind, exerting an unconditional love that’s hard to find anywhere else. When their tails begin to wag as you enter the room or offer them a little treat, it can’t help but bring a smile to your face. While they can be clumsy from time to time and maybe even get into a bit of mischief, the bond between a dog and its owner is truly special. It’s something we may not think about, but dogs can teach us valuable lessons. Their capacity to sense our own emotions has the power to do amazing things, as we’ve seen dogs used to help support veterans returning home from deployment. As a dog owner, I’ve found myself even learning about the importance of love and loyalty from my dogs, and how it can positively impact my relationship with friends, family, and colleagues. Thinking about it now, it gives an important new meaning to these ‘dog days of summer’ and reminds me of why dogs are considered man's best friend. Read The Report Comforting K9’s – Spreading Love and Support Read More ‘Dog Times’ in New England: 5 Great Dog Attractions Read More Positive Profile of the Week: Jake Tyler and ‘Doug’ This week we are delighted to highlight a dynamic duo – who truly exemplify the special bond between man and dog - Jake Tyler and his devoted friend - his dog, Doug! Officer Jake Tyler might be a name many of you know given his devoted service as member of the police force in Manchester. He's been a participant in the CHaD Battle of the Badges Hockey Game, a game and organization Karen and I love to support each year. He has served on the Manchester PD Swat team, specializing in K9 handling. And after a seven-year run, Officer Tyler and his K9 Doug hung up their leash but not before doing something amazing. Jake and Doug participated in this year’s 1k swim to support the veterans’ organization, ‘Swim With a Mission.’ The pair swims year after year (this was their 5th time) to support this meaningful and impactful organization. They participated in the event alongside other K9 units to raise thousands of dollars for one of New Hampshire’s largest veteran support initiatives. Jake and Doug have been together going all the way back to 2016. The two have helped keep the streets of Manchester safe and even helped patrol sections of the 2023 Boston Marathon. Even though the pair won’t be together at the PD anymore, their weekends and evenings will be full of making new memories. Upon Doug’s retirement, Officer Tyler and his family took ownership of him so he and Jake can live out Doug’s years of retirement together. Now, this isn’t Jake’s first go around with a police dog. Jake used to be partnered with legendary police K9 Bud. The two could be seen all over the Queen City patrolling the streets but also supporting great causes including Iced Coffee Day, the Fisher Cats Foundation, and many more. We are honored to highlight Jake and Doug – and thank them for their many contributions to our great community! Quote of the Week "Summer's golden days, like a faithful dog, arrive with boundless energy and infectious joy, reminding us to bask in the warmth of life's simplest pleasures." – Unknown     Jay Lucas | www.JayLucas.us  Share This Email Share This Email Share This Email Jay Lucas | 7 Portwalk Pl, Portsmouth, NH 03801 Unsubscribe [email protected] Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice Sent by [email protected]