Merriam-Webster’s dictionary describes dog days as (1) the period between early July and early September when the hot sultry weather of summer usually occurs in the northern hemisphere;
(2) a period of stagnation or inactivity.
Encyclopaedia Britannica describes dog days as periods of exceptionally hot and humid weather that often occur in July, August, and early September in the northern temperate latitudes. The name originated with the ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians; they believed that Sirius, the dog star, which rises simultaneously with the Sun during this time of the year, added its heat to the Sun’s and thereby caused the hot weather. Their belief that dogs were subject to spells of madness at this time also may have contributed to the name.
Where I live, I wouldn't say that we have experienced exceptionally hot and humid weather this summer. After reading these definitions I realized that it does not have anything to do with dogs lazing around. This got me thinking about the favorite spots that my dog likes to laze around. He has several around the house and I thought it would be entertaining to illustrate them.
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| Having several soft comfy beds around the house allows for taking naps in several strategic locations |
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| This covered sofa chair is by the kitchen and provides him with a soft place to curl up and supervise the activities going on in the kitchen. He has to keep tabs on the food preparation. |
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| He likes to prop his head on the chair by the telephone table. This is also in a strategic location by the kitchen. |
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Laying by the front door allows him to stretch out and also keep tabs on everyone in the house. This last photo is his night resting spot. The bed looks like a small couch and he loves sleeping on his dog bed. Watching the dog, I realize we could take lessons at times from our canine companions in learning how to relax and laze around. |
Oh, to be a dog! He looks perfectly content!
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