Doggone Etiquette —

Real Dog Days

By Bardi McLennan

A Word to the Dogs:

You have probably seen your VIPeople scowl when they mention “dog days.” They were referring to the hot, humid sultry summer weather we sometimes get in July. It has nothing to do with you dogs. It was merely the position of the Dog Star (Sirius) in the sky. Well, this year Sirius let us down. Not much sunshine, only rain, rain and more rain. I am sure all you dogs were as fed up with it as your people were. But hang in there! The real “dog days” – the ones meant especially for you – are here. Listen up and I’ll tell your VIPeople about it.

A Word to the Dogs’ Owners:

It is so obvious to dog owners which ones are miserable dog days and which are the “real” dog days. The real ones are the days when you meet everyone else out walking their dogs. It’s when there are special “Dog Walks” set up to benefit all kinds of worthy local animal groups. There are dog shows and competition in all the events you’ve been practicing (or learning about) such as Rally and Agility and Tracking.

This is the time of year for walks along the lake, down by the shore, or a hike in the woods. The days are a bit shorter (so you are saved from over-doing any of it) and even though the days are a bit cooler, the sun is still warm. These are the perfect “dog” days. Just ask any dog. The chances are good that all you’ll have to do in order to find out how Rufus feels about it, is to pick up his leash and put one hand on the door! Oh, and be sure to ask for a perfect “sit” before you connect collar to leash and definitely before you open that door.

WHEN you go depends entirely on your schedule, but where you go is a decision that rests almost entirely with your own dog. You may walk Rufus in your neighborhood every day, but we are talking about “Dog Days” and that means special walks which may only be possible for you to manage over the weekend. That takes care of the “when” so let’s have a look at the “where” of this discussion.

WHERE you go is dictated by your dog in the following ways.

The breed (or type) of dog – a Toy breed or very small dog with or without a fluffy coat, would not be the best one to take for a hike in the woods. However, such a dog might thoroughly enjoy a stroll in a park-like area. A large dog might like to explore those woods, or run along a river, or even go jogging – or meandering – down a quiet dirt road! Where you take Rufus also depends entirely on his physical condition. If your dog is slowed down by age, you need to slow down that special walk; maybe drive to his favorite spot and then let him enjoy it at his own pace. One dog I knew was taken every weekend to walk around a horse farm. The old dog was now blind, but had been raised around horses and the smell alone made his day, and his tail wag.

Lots of dogs enjoy sailing, and therefore life jackets are available in just about every size to fit every dog. In addition to that bit of security, the dog should be able to swim and not be afraid of the water. Some dogs are completely at home on any type of boat, while others require a leash for restraint or they’ll be in your way (or go overboard!). Good basic training is essential. Fishing is another sport that can be the cause of great excitement, or a relaxing way to spend a day – for both the dogs and their owners. 

Until next time – BE GOOD!

-  Bardi