National Dog Day August 26

Happy National Dog Day!

National Dog Day gives us a reminder of the value and importance of dogs in our lives. Dogs do a lot for us and deserve an extra pat on the head today.

Some dogs are working dogs that make it possible for people to stay safe and live a more normal life. I send my appreciation and thanks to all the dogs who:

* Lead the blind
* Provide search and rescue services
* Sniff out arson sources
* Watchdogs who provide safety (I think that's almost every dog)
* Find bombs and drugs
* Sense an oncoming seizure of their owner

Of course we also must honor dogs who are simply our pet and:

* Give love and companionship
* Give us someone to care for and forget about our own problems for a few minutes
* Save a life of their owner who may be considering suicide, but the love of their dog keeps them going another day
* Help us stay healthy by insisting on us going for a walk each day
* Provide a sense of security (bark to tell us when someone is coming to the house)
* Are our most faithful friend

On this National Dog Day, consider saving a dog from homelesness and abuse. Visit your local shelter if you think a dog might be a good companion for you, or to make a donation to help dogs who have been rescued and are waiting for a new home.