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Dog Days Of Summer And Games To Play
Posted by Michael Shine
We often hear about the “dog days” of summer, but few know what the expression means. Some say that it signifies hot sultry days “not fit for a dog,” others suggest it’s the weather in which dogs go mad. The Dog Days of Summer describes the most challenging period of summer, between July 3 and Aug. 11 each year. But where did the term originate? And what does it have to do with dogs?
Why Are They Called the “Dog Days” of Summer?
The phrase is a reference to the fact that, during this time, the Sun occupies the same region of the sky as Sirius, the brightest star visible from any part of Earth and part of the constellation Canis Major, the Greater Dog. The star being part of the constellation Canis Major is why Sirius is sometimes called the Dog Star.
In the summer, Sirius rises and sets with the Sun. On Jul. 23, mainly, it is in conjunction with the Sun, and because the star is so bright, the ancient Romans believed it gave off heat and added to the Sun’s warmth, accounting for the long stretch of sultry weather. They referred to this time as diēs caniculārēs, or “dog days.”
Thus, the term Dog Days of Summer came to mean the 20 days before and 20 days after this alignment of Sirius with the Sun—Jul. 3 to Aug. 11.
In the summer, Sirius rises and sets with the Sun. On Jul. 23, mainly, it is in conjunction with the Sun, and because the star is so bright, the ancient Romans believed it gave off heat and added to the Sun’s warmth, accounting for the long stretch of sultry weather. They referred to this time as diēs caniculārēs, or “dog days.”
Thus, the term Dog Days of Summer came to mean the 20 days before and 20 days after this alignment of Sirius with the Sun—Jul. 3 to Aug. 11.
What Are Some Games We Can Play?
Bundling up all winter in front of a fireplace with your dog is excellent, but it’s time to get some sunshine! Not only will you get your vitamin D, but your dog will also be able to stretch those tiny (or long) legs. Here are six date ideas for you and your pup this spring season.
Grab your toys and pets. Its play date time! Dog parks are a great way to celebrate spring. After being cooped up inside for so long, your dog will appreciate the newly grown grass and socializing with other dogs. The freedom of not being held back by a leash is invigorating. So, let those dogs run around lease free.
Out with the old and in with the new. Toss out that stuffed animal missing an eye and broken chew toys. Visit our pet store and let your pup find unique toys for this spring season. You can also order tons of sports-related toys on our website!
On a budget? Turn those raggedy shirts into a tug-toy! Tie shirts together and let your dog tear them to shreds while you two play a game of tug-o-war!
Pull out the lawn sprinkler and let it rip. Distract your dog for hours while cooling himself off playing in the sprinklers. Your pup will love chasing the water. It’s also fun to watch and share. Have a camera close by; your dog will likely pull weird stunts.
Most dogs will pop the eggs open with their paws or jaws. For softer chewers, you can drill larger holes for the treats to roll out. Playing this game is a great way to celebrate Easter with your furry friend. The puzzle will sharpen his mind and improve motor skills.
Off the leash
Grab your toys and pets. Its play date time! Dog parks are a great way to celebrate spring. After being cooped up inside for so long, your dog will appreciate the newly grown grass and socializing with other dogs. The freedom of not being held back by a leash is invigorating. So, let those dogs run around lease free.
Beach Body
While it might be too cold for you to hop in the water, your furry friend will not think twice before jumping in bodies of water. Beaches are great places for your dog to get exercise while you work on your tan before summer kicks into full swing.Climb Mountains
Not all of us have access to beaches, but that won’t stop your dog from scaling mountains by your side. Spring is the perfect time to hike without the worry of hazardous snakes and creepy crawlies. Search for the closest hiking trail and start walking! In mountainous areas, you can usually find dog-friendly hikes that make it safe to hike off-leash. Make sure you periodically check your dog’s paws for wood chips and sharp rocks. On high traffic, trails keep your pal on a leash to prevent injuries for your dog and others.
Spring Cleaning
Out with the old and in with the new. Toss out that stuffed animal missing an eye and broken chew toys. Visit our pet store and let your pup find unique toys for this spring season. You can also order tons of sports-related toys on our website!On a budget? Turn those raggedy shirts into a tug-toy! Tie shirts together and let your dog tear them to shreds while you two play a game of tug-o-war!
Sprinkler Party
Pull out the lawn sprinkler and let it rip. Distract your dog for hours while cooling himself off playing in the sprinklers. Your pup will love chasing the water. It’s also fun to watch and share. Have a camera close by; your dog will likely pull weird stunts.
Egg Hunting
Egg hunting isn’t just popular with kids. Dogs love it too! Grab some plastic eggs and poke holes in it to let the aroma of treats escape. Allow the dog to sniff an egg and take him out of the room. Hide the eggs at the nose level (depending on experience) and let your pup back in the room.Most dogs will pop the eggs open with their paws or jaws. For softer chewers, you can drill larger holes for the treats to roll out. Playing this game is a great way to celebrate Easter with your furry friend. The puzzle will sharpen his mind and improve motor skills.
