What Are The Dog Days of Summer? Origins and Modern Implications
When you think of the dog days of summer, your mind will probably conjure images of hot, lazy days, or perhaps references from popular culture like the "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" series or the Florence + the Machine song. This phrase has long been a common part of our warm-weather vocabulary—but what does it actually mean, and what does it have to do with dogs?
The dog days of summer occur between July 3 and August 11. Contrary to a common folk belief that attributes the name to the heat making dogs go mad, the term "dog days" actually has no direct connection to our furry friends. Instead, it is inspired by the sky, specifically the stars.
The dog days refer to the period when Sirius, the Dog Star, rises and sets with the sun. Sirius is the brightest star in the constellation Canis Major, Latin for “Greater Dog,” which is where the term’s canine connection originates.
Ancient Greeks and later the Romans noticed that the hottest days of summer coincided with the rising of Sirius near the sun. The star’s name comes from the Greek word for “scorching,” and Romans believed that Sirius contributed additional heat when it aligned with the sun. The Egyptians also noted that the Dog Star's position heralded the annual flooding of the Nile River.
The Shifting Calendar
Due to the Earth's wobbly rotation, the stars' placements in the sky change over time, which has shifted the timing of the dog days. Sirius once rose with the sun closer to the summer solstice, but now this phenomenon takes place in July and August. Interestingly, in about 10,000 years, the dog days will shift so far back that they will occur in winter.
Keeping Pets Safe in the Heat
Despite the lack of a direct connection to our pets, the dog days of summer serve as a reminder of the intense heat in the Northern Hemisphere during this period. Pet owners should be vigilant about keeping their animals cool and hydrated. Here are some essential tips:
Never leave pets in a parked vehicle: Even with windows rolled down, cars can quickly become dangerously hot.
Check the pavement temperature: Place the back of your hand on the asphalt for a few seconds. If it feels too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pet's paws.
Ensure proper hydration: Pets need about one ounce of water per pound of body weight daily.
Protect against sunburn: For dogs prone to sunburn, use canine sunscreen and seek shade when outdoors.
With proper precautions, the dog days can be a perfect time to enjoy summer activities. Break out your swim trunks and take your dog to a pet-friendly beach or pool to make the most of this sweltering season.
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