I’m always amazed at people’s lack of dog skills, or unwarranted fear of dogs. Do you/your kids know how to correctly approach a dog? Ask permission from the owner to interact? Know polite, dog-welcome body language/ sounds to avoid being bitten? Can you all respect a dog’s personal space?.

We never know how long we may have with the special animals in our lives. We take a chance, and tempt fate, when we open our home and heart. Whether it’s a year, ten or even 100, it would never be enough. Some friends and even family members don’t understand when our pets depart.

Sweltering weather has taken leave. Daylight savings’ time has kicked in. Pet events consume your dog’s social calendar- --and your’s! In celebration, you might have purchased your prized pooch a new collar and lead (NONretractable, I hope), or acquired some canine couture.