THE HEART AND SOUL OF DOGS- WHY EVERY DAY SHOULD BE INTERNATIONAL DOG DAY

In a world where special days are set aside to honor and celebrate various aspects of life, International /National Dog Day stands out as a beacon of recognition for our loyal canine companions. While this dedicated day each year is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the joy and love that dogs bring into our lives, it’s worth considering why these incredible animals deserve more than just one day of recognition. In truth, every day should be celebrated as International/National Dog Day, given the profound and multifaceted ways dogs enrich our lives.

The Unwavering Loyalty and Unconditional Love

At the core of the human-canine relationship is an extraordinary bond defined by unwavering loyalty and unconditional love. Dogs have an innate ability to connect with humans on a deeply emotional level, often providing companionship and comfort during times of need. This bond is not only heartwarming but also scientifically significant. Most ‘dog people’ already know this and now Scientific Research has shown that interactions with dogs can lead to reduced stress levels, lower blood pressure, and enhanced overall emotional well-being. * Check out our article on Oxytocin and the powerful bond created by dogs and humans.

The Role of Dogs in Enhancing Human Lives

1. Emotional Support and Mental Health: Dogs have long been recognized for their therapeutic benefits. They offer emotional support and companionship, which is especially valuable for individuals facing mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety. *The simple act of petting a dog has been shown to release endorphins, boost oxytocin, and reduce cortisol levels, all of which contribute to improved mental health.

2. Physical Health and Well-being: Beyond emotional support, dogs also play a role in encouraging physical activity. Regular walks and playtime not only benefit the dog, but also help keep their human companions active and healthy. This aspect of dog ownership promotes cardiovascular health, aids in weight management, and enhances overall physical fitness for both parties.  Not to mention, when you think about it, how many of the people you have met thru your dogs being interested enough to stop and ’introduce’ you, would you have even talked with these people if it were not for your dogs?… Dogs are naturally social creatures and help us humans to become more so as well.  You have their great ancestor the Wolf to thank for this. If it were not for Wolves, we humans would not have the hundreds of recognized domestic dog breeds and mixed breeds that we know today. Curious, friendly wolves bonded with our human ancestors thousands of years ago and it was through this unique connection that both humans and wolves/dogs evolved in various ways. Through dogs, we can develop friendships that might have otherwise passed us by.

3. Assistance and Service: Many dogs serve as guide dogs for the visually impaired, therapy dogs in hospitals, and service dogs for individuals with various disabilities. Their specialized training and innate abilities make them indispensable in various aspects of support and assistance, showcasing their profound impact on improving quality of life.

Celebrating Dogs Every Day!

Given the extensive benefits that dogs bring to our lives, it is only fitting that we honor them every day. While International/National Dog Day provides a focused opportunity to celebrate and appreciate dogs, acknowledging their value should be a continuous practice. Here are a few ways to ensure that every day reflects the spirit of International/National Dog Day:

1. Daily Acts of Kindness: Small gestures of love and care, such as regular walks, quality playtime, and attentive grooming, can make a significant difference in a dog's happiness and health.

2. Advocacy and Awareness: Supporting animal welfare organizations and advocating for responsible pet ownership helps improve the lives of dogs in need. Spreading awareness about adoption and rescue can contribute to the well-being of countless dogs.

3. Cherishing the Bond: Taking quality time each day to appreciate the unique bond shared with a dog reinforces the special relationship between humans and their canine companions. Whether through a gentle pat, a warm hug, or simply spending quality time together, these moments of connection are invaluable.

Happy International Dog Day

Dogs embody the essence of unconditional love, loyalty, and pure joy. Their impact on our lives is profound and far-reaching, making every day a celebration of their presence. While National Dog Day provides a designated time to honor these remarkable animals, recognizing their significance and celebrating them daily is a tribute to the heart and soul they bring into our lives. Let us embrace the spirit of International/National Dog Day every day, cherishing the companionship, support, and boundless love that dogs so generously offer.

DO DOGS ACTUALLY NEED TO BE TAKEN FOR WALKS?

Out for a Walk In Nature

Yes, it’s just like for humans- a dog’s overall well being includes needing to be out and about on walks; preferably in a natural surrounding; even a neighborhood park.

If you are a pet parent/guardian and you think that just putting them out in the yard or on a patio is enough, think again.

You need to take your dog for walks for many of the same reasons you need to take your self for more walks including: exercise, mental stimulation, air circulation, sunshine, and more opportunities for safe socialization.

Here’s why regular walks are essential for dogs:

* Physical Health

Daily walks are essential for maintaining a healthy body weight and helping to prevent becoming obese; which we all know is unhealthy for all living sentient creatures.

* Joints and Muscle Health:Regular physical activity like daily walks helps to maintain both joint health and healthy oxygenated muscles, bones and blood; reducing the risk of mobility and other health problems. 

* Cardiovascular Health: Walks will obviously improve cardiovascular health and be beneficial to your dog’s overall well-being. 

* Mental Health and Well-being:

* Stimulation and Socialization: Walks in a safe environment like a friendly, neighborhood park can help to provide mental stimulation allowing your dog to walk with you exploring and experiencing the sights, sounds, and smells while helping to prevent boredom and frustration.  All creatures love learning new things in a safe environment. Nothing is better to a dog than knowing he/she can be out and about with you going places and doing things both familiar and new.  They just LOVE being with us and sharing in life’s experiences.  Observing what/who we react to and why helps us both to know and understand one another better. Remember, dogs ‘read’ energy and ‘tune into’ not just the environment we are in, but to how we humans act or re-act to it. * I’ve always said that “Energy travels up and down the leash.”

Walking Your Dog In A Safe Environment

* Stress Relief: Exercise helps release stress and anxiety, promoting a calmer and happier dog and most usually a healthier, happier human pet parent as well.

*If you are going to skip walks with your dog, you do need to remember that ‘rain or shine, snow or wind’, it is necessary for you to dress appropriately and if need be to get them dressed for the weather as well, and this should be a ‘given’ but you’d be surprised, maybe even shocked about how often we get asked the questions about ‘how often’ to take the dogs out to go to the bathroom, so- take them out to do their bathroom business as often as you would need to do yours. First thing when you get up in the morning you have to relieve your bladder.  So do they.  After you wake up from a nap or something ‘startling’ you have to go to the bathroom. So do they.  After you eat and or drink alot you have to go.  So do they.  You have to go again right before you go to bed for the nite. So do they.  This is all ‘common sense’.   Yes,You can skip the adventure and exploration walks on those days of inclement weather if you wish and instead learn how to play ‘indoor’ games such as hide and seek, find me, games with a lighted /squeaky ball, and perhaps some fun, interactive puzzle games together.    If you both love to get out and about no matter what the weather, great, there’s that option too.  Please DO Consider your dog’s feelings and thoughts about this as well as your own.  Sometimes dogs are only doing things because they ‘read’ that it pleases us, and they are not into it at all, and sometimes it’s the other way around.  Learn to read one another and live lovingly and respectfully together. Have fun. Learn what it’s like to be a dog. Be a good pet parent or guardian.

DO YOU KNOW WHO YOU LIVE WITH?~ EXPLORING WOLVES: ANCESTRAL GUARDIANS AND ESSENTIAL PARTNERS IN HUMAN HISTORY AND THE EVOLUTION OF DOGS

Wolves, the majestic and enigmatic creatures that have roamed the Earth for centuries, are more than just a symbol of wilderness; they are an integral part of our history, especially in the context of our relationship with dogs. As the ancestors of our beloved companions, wolves have played a crucial role in shaping not only the evolution of dogs, but also in forming a deep bond with humanity. This article delves into the profound significance of wolves in the evolution of dogs and their enduring influence on human societies.

Ancient Ancestry: The connection between wolves and dogs transcends time and can be traced back thousands of years. Recent Genetic research has established that dogs share a common ancestor with the gray wolf, Canis lupus. This ancestral link dates back to around 15,000-40,000 years ago, perhaps even further, marking the domestication of wolves into the loyal, varied breeds of dogs we all cherish today. This transformation from wild wolves to domesticated dogs was a pivotal moment in human history, signifying the beginning of a partnership that has endured through the ages and was not just a shift in physical appearance, but a profound alteration in behavior, temperament, and social structure, marking the beginning of a partnership that has significantly and positively influenced human civilization.

Vital Role in Evolution and Domestication: Wolves' cooperation with early humans was vital for survival of both species.  Wolves were skilled hunters, demonstrating teamwork and family social structures that inspired humans to form alliances with them. This collaboration led to mutual benefits: Wolves gained a consistent food source from human hunting, while humans benefitted from the wolves' keen senses and protective instincts. Over generations, this symbiotic relationship gradually shaped the genetic traits that distinguished dogs from their wild ancestors. This mutual relationship led to the emergence of certain behavioural and genetic adaptations in wolves, gradually differentiating them from their wild counterparts and paving the way for the unique attributes found in our modern day dogs.  Over time, this co-evolution has been fundamental in the development of many diverse breeds of dogs we know today, each with its own specific traits and abilities. From Herding Dogs to Hunting Dogs and all dogs in between, they owe their common and unique traits to their ancient ancestors: the wonderful wild wolf.

Throughout history, wolves served as both companions and working animals. They assisted in hunting, guarded settlements, and provided protection. Different cultures revered and incorporated wolves into their folklore and spirituality, recognizing their intelligence, strength, and loyalty.; the way each member of the family pack behaves and contributes in their own unique way for the good of the pack as a whole.               In essence, wolves were not merely animals; they became esteemed members of early human societies. Let’s not forget, we humans are animals too.

Modern Perspectives: Despite their critical role in history, wolves have faced numerous and ongoing challenges, including habitat loss at an unprecedented rate, unjustified persecution, and an incredible amount of sheer misunderstanding. Human encroachment into their original territories has threatened their very existence, leading to conservation efforts aimed at preserving these vital apex predators.  These beautiful and vital creatures are being murdered simply due to their species and lack of enforced protection, and that has to stop.

Moreover, understanding the evolutionary link between wolves and dogs provides invaluable insights into canine behavior, health, and genetics. Scientific research continues to explore the genetic similarities and differences between wolves and dogs, unraveling long standing mysteries and enhancing our human understanding of our own four-legged companions.

The ongoing efforts to conserve wolf populations, reintroduce them to natural habitats, and promote coexistence highlight the significance of maintaining a harmonious relationship with these magnificent creatures. Their conservation not only ensures the preservation of a keystone species but also contributes to maintaining naturally balanced ecosystems.

Wolves Are Incredibly Loyal And Are Devoted To Their Mate And Family Pack For Life

The story of wolves is intertwined with the evolution of dogs and the history of humanity itself.  Their role as ancestors to our beloved canine companions is an integral part of our shared history. Wolves have left an indelible mark on human civilization, from the ancient bond that catalyzed domestication of dogs, to the enduring lessons they offer us about our interconnectedness with the natural world.

Recognizing the importance of wolves is not merely about acknowledging their past significance but also about embracing their continued relevance in modern times. By understanding and respecting these magnificent creatures, we honor our shared history and ensure a more compassionate and harmonious coexistence with the natural world, for indeed, we are all expressions of Mother Nature herself.

Wolves are not just animals; they are guardians of our past and vital contributors to the beauty and diversity of our planet, deserving of our utmost admiration and protection.