They may call this time of year the dog days of summer, and maybe that’s the reason, but today is National Dog Day. Or National Dog Appreciation Day. It’s a day to celebrate dogs, which I think is a good thing.
I like animals. Most all animals. The ones we keep as pets certainly have figured out how to get us to do their bidding for the most part, and you have to give them credit for that.
We have had a few animals over the years. Several guinea pigs, a bird or two, many cats and a few dogs, just to list a few. And while I have enjoyed them all for various reasons, I do not hesitate to say the dogs top my list.
There is just something about them. Maybe it’s the fact they actually seem to like us and want to spend time with us. Maybe it’s the way they greet you when you get home. There are a lot of reasons, but I do like them.
I will admit, I tend to need them. On those few occasions when I have not had a dog, I tend to get out of shape. The dog gets me out of the house and walking. The dog needs a walk, which means I need to walk too. Really, I need the exercise anyway, but without that furry little face looking at me expectantly, it’s too easy to put off.
And dogs are always happy to see you. No matter how bad a day you’re having. They don’t care.
So this is my dog, Sophie. The picture is a couple years old so there is a bit more white on her face. I never intended to get a dog quite this big, but she won me over, and at the time was a lot smaller. I really have to learn to check out the size of those paws.
Now if you’ll excuse me, my friend wants to go for a walk.
