Loose Ends: Doggone it

“One dog a’sprawlin’, two dogs a’ lollin’, and three dogs a’ pantin’ just might fit the waning summer season. Summoning up the remembrance of the familiar winter holiday tune “The Twelve Days of Christmas”, one might be tempted to change the lyrics a bit to sing a song about the “Dog Days Of Summer.” During these especially scorching hot days, it is difficult to keep up with myriad activities that one can find here. Staying outdoors all day and exploring new undiscovered places fairly close to home becomes almost impossible, unless there are enough spots for dogs and their human companions to get out of the direct sunlight.
Looking at the motley assortment of canines assembled, one can only see the problems presented by the others that have arrived earlier in the day. More often than not, the crowds who gather together to celebrate the warm weather, as well as honor their own family traditions, insist on bringing their canine companions with them. Some of them sport bandanas, hats, sunglasses and maybe a lightweight article of clothing which can double as swimwear. Pet owners know they need to be ready for anything to happen. It is apparent that some of us are continuing to follow that old Boy and Girl Scout credo: “Be prepared.”
All dogs and their companions need to become informed about the socially acceptable art of schmoozing, by doing what puppies and babies do to get people to care and share. They radiate cuteness. It isn’t a problem until one is faced with a dog owner who says reassuringly, no matter how shy or anxious their canine companion appears, “No worries. He’s friendly, He has never bitten anyone.” What they haven’t added is that important word “usually.” The sudden “whirr” of a retractable leash is the only clue that this encounter will not continue to be cordial.
Maybe the person who coined that old familiar phrase had experienced a few stretches of days that never appeared to end. That is until they did, and then suddenly and predictably as they arrived, they were over. According to a few weather experts our usual run of this year’s Dog Days of Summer will soon be over… MAYBE.