Dog Days

Global warming studies by a variety of sources say we are having the hottest summers ever recorded.  Proof of the lyrical "Dog Days of Summer" that have just passed us by with the beginning of fall.  The saying 'dog days' was originated by the Greek poets, who noted that the constellation with Sirius - the brightest star - was always prominent in the Mediterranean skies during the hottest points of the year.  Homer eloquently wrote in The Iliad:

Sirius rises late in the dark, liquid sky

On summer nights, star of stars,

Orion's Dog they call it, brightest

of all, but an evil portent, bringing heat

And fevers to suffering humanity.

The suffering references pestilence, plaque, fever and then ravages of war that would occur during these same days of summer.  Not lazy days, as the spring had troop movements and attacks could easily be cast during summer and early harvest season (when food would be plentiful) prior to returning to their homelands and the onset of winter.

Dogs on the Earth (as opposed to the heavens above) are in more than 36% of American households according to statistics posted on the American Veterinarian Medical Association website (yes, cats are second at 30%).  Between heaven and earth, our four legged friends remind us about unconditional love, friendship, loyalty - and a host of worthy attributes for any kind of friends.

But remember - if you aren't in the northern hemisphere, the throws of winter are upon you during the Greek's dog days of summer.  Then, dogs are trying to keep warm along with their owners.

It's all about perspective, isn't it?  That's the way it is with everything... including walking your dog or someone else's well-loved pup or with projects and relationships with others.  Think about the perspective of others (including your poochie) before you take actions that will make others think twice about walking with you.

http://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2015/09/the-dog-walking-economy/407971/