Aug 27th “The bottle and the throttle don’t mix.”

RIDE SOBER OR GET PULLED OVER – Two Weeks Before and Through Labor Day

Aug 26th “NATIONAL BE AN ANGEL DAY”

 

 

NATIONAL BE AN ANGEL DAY

On August 22nd, National Be An Angel Day encourages good deeds and kindness to others. By supporting those in need and inspiring others to kindness, we display an act of an angel here on earth.

The day also recognizes those who’ve been angels to us. Sometimes we have a bad day. Whether its bad news or poor planning, we all have them. A kind word, a hug or even a pleasant atmosphere makes a difference. Other times, though, days, even weeks can be devastating. A loss, illness or overwhelming news takes the wind from our sails. Those angels provide comfort at a time when we need it most.

The same happens to the people around us. We don’t always know what others may be enduring. We can be an angel in big and small ways. Whether we know a person’s concerns or not, simply offering to join them for a meal may relieve their stress. Having someone to listen, often is something we need most.

Noticing someone’s efforts is another way we can be an angel. Letting them know you’re impressed with their stamina, talent, progress – fill in the blanks. These positive comments provide morale-boosting energy.

Any time we see someone in need, the opportunity arises to offer help.  Assist an elderly neighbor with lawn care. Don’t overlook the single parents when setting up play dates. Their children – and the parents – need the social interaction, too.

Also, when you value someone’s time, effort and presence, don’t hesitate to tell them. We may be individual people, but we don’t thrive alone. Look out for each other.

HOW TO OBSERVE #BeAnAngelDay

Be someone’s angel. Lift them up when they need it. Offer an ear to listen, a hand to lift them up, or a shoulder to hold them up until they can stand again. Give patience when you least feel like giving it. Hear the pain below the complaint or the exhaustion under the frustration. Notice the worry, not the anger. Look with eyes that see the whole person, not just the fraction of a moment. Hold a hand when there’s nothing else that can be done. Dry a tear. Use #BeAnAngelDay to share on social media.

NATIONAL BE AN ANGEL DAY HISTORY

In 1993, Jayne Howard Feldman created National Be An Angel Day to encourage acts of kindness.

Aug 26th “NATIONAL DOG DAY”

National Dog Day on August 26th encourages dog ownership of all breeds. While seeking a new companion, be sure to consider the mutts, mixes, purebreds, and everything in between. 

Whether mixed or purebred, embrace the opportunity for all dogs to live a happy, safe, and abuse-free life. They all give us companionship. Additionally, they keep us safe, and they aid those in need. Dogs play. Well, they play many roles in our lives, too! They keep us healthy, both physically and mentally.

While many days aim to find loving homes for dogs, this day expands that consideration to look beyond the breed. Look into the heart of the animal. The purpose of the National Dog Day Foundation is to rescue 10,000 dogs each year.

A dog is man’s best friend.

Purebreds are animals whose parents were both of the same breed. While the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes official breeds, not all dogs with parents from the same breed are considered official by the AKC. One benefit of purebred animals is that characteristics such as behavior and size are predictable.

With mixed breed animals, the genetics becomes uncertain, and some of the predictability is lost. However, when it comes to choosing a dog to add to your family or for training one to join a team, both purebred and mixed breeds may still fit the bill. Both types of dogs, young and old, find their way to shelters.

Many popular breeds fill shelters due to recent films or television shows. Families buy an animal imagining they will make the perfect pet but are unprepared for the training, care, and other responsibilities that come with canine care. Regardless of their genetics, all dogs require care and training. If there’s a particular breed that has captured your heart, check the shelters. You might be surprised to find either a purebred or one that is a mix of the kind you’re fond of.

When dogs find a forever home, their companionship creates lifelong benefits. They bring with them joy, loyalty, and devotion. Eventually, no matter the breed, these pets become family.

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalDogDay

Listen to Dog Walking by The Knits from their album Pixel Parks.

When considering adoption, adopt, don’t shop. If you have your heart set on a purebred companion, consider visiting a website like bestfriends.org or petfinder.com to find one at a shelter. Learn how organizations like these are changing the way we adopt. As you search for your new family member, get prepared. Keep in mind the needs of a small versus large dog. Until you find your forever companion, consider volunteering at your shelter or becoming a foster parent.

Use #NationalDogDay and post photos of your dog on social media.  Take your dog for a walk.  If you do not have a dog, ask to take your neighbor’s dog for a stroll, or volunteer at a shelter. 

NATIONAL DOG DAY HISTORY

Colleen Paige, pet lifestyle expert, founded National Dog Day in 2004.

“Is this cutest and sweetest of the little and  most hand held “Chihuahuas”  you ever did see?”

For a small  and tiny  little dog, “Little Miss Bebee” comes  with a huge personality.  “Miss Bebee”  does possess loyalty, charm, and  a big-dog attitude – if fact when someone asked me what kind of a “dog”  is she?  – “I had to tell them, she is a miniature  “GERMAN Shepherd” – and as I walked away – – just had to turn around to say –  “She thinks she is – and I let her believe it!”