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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.
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