National Dog Day falls on Aug. 26, coinciding with Daily Paws’ third birthday – we’ve officially outgrown the terrible twos. Hooray!
To honor this special moment, we can’t think of a better way than sharing why our love for dogs knows no bounds. Whether they’re still by our side or have left paw prints on our hearts, each furry friend deserves celebration for the immeasurable love and joy they’ve brought into our lives over the years.
Enjoy the read:
Moose
In my childhood, we shared our home with Moose, a 250-pound English Mastiff. Moose embodied the term “gentle giant,” being incredibly affectionate and, well, extremely lazy. His tail wagged so vigorously that we had to clear the entryway of furniture to avoid accidents. Moose, regardless of available space, would leap onto the couch and claim your lap, ensuring you stayed put until he felt like moving. His love for basking in the sun led to us occasionally running late for school, resorting to a trail of cheese as a bribe to lure him away from his sunbeam haven.
-Allie Giordano, general manager
Chloe and Rhyme
Chloe emerged as the catalyst for an unforgettable chapter in my life, introducing me to the extraordinary world of animal companionship. A mysterious, black-coated figure with a hint of Labrador Retriever allure, she materialized outside my college apartment at a tender 8 weeks old. Instantly, she became the muse that fueled my fascination with the unpredictable joys of living alongside unique creatures. In my youthful obliviousness to the nuances of pet care, Chloe orchestrated a symphony of mischief, leaving behind trails of candle wreckage and carpet chaos. A virtuoso in infiltrating food containers and gracefully surfing countertops, Chloe once even indulged in an entire chocolate cake, etching a memorable tale in our shared narrative.
Chloe, an unconventional mentor in the realm of distinctive pet care, unveiled the art of training, the significance of socialization, and the vitality of keeping pace with her boundless energy. In return, she bestowed upon me a tapestry woven with unwavering loyalty and profound affection, a tapestry that unfolded gracefully until her serene departure at the venerable age of 17. While a procession of remarkable creatures left their indelible marks on my life throughout Chloe’s journey, particularly as fleeting foster companions, the bond we forged remained an unrivaled masterpiece. Little did I anticipate that the narrative of extraordinary connections would persist, evolving with the introduction of Rhyme.
At the time, I worked as a vet tech, and she came to my clinic for heartworm treatment. Our eyes locked, and it felt like she imprinted on me. As it turned out, a local dog rescue was fostering her, and within two weeks, I adopted her. Rhyme, unlike her predecessor, was an affectionate pit bull mix but carried a nervous and insecure demeanor. She seemed to harbor pent-up energy she hesitated to release. With months of bonding, training, and socialization, she transformed into a confident, joyful dog. After a couple of years, we became an animal-assisted therapy team, and Rhyme thrived in this role. There’s a captivating quality about the way she connects with people through eye contact, a quality I felt compelled to share with the world. Rhyme particularly lights up when children are around. We visited schools, teaching kids about dog safety and interaction, helping both kids and adults overcome their fear of dogs. Although Rhyme is now retired, she still delights in meeting new people and brightening their lives.
-Jenna Stregowski, pet health and behavior editor
Millie, Finn, and Izzie
After years of persistent pleas to my parents for a furry companion, our home finally welcomed Izzie, a delightful 3-pound Shih Tzu puppy named after a Grey’s Anatomy character, when I turned 16. Instantly, she illuminated our house with her playful antics and endearing little face, introducing me to the swift responsibilities of late-night potty breaks. Izzie became a beloved figure not only in our family but also among our friends, as if she were a cherished member of everyone’s household. A year ago, we had to bid farewell to her, and the absence of her warm greetings at the door makes my parents’ house feel forever changed.
Millie and Finn, my dynamic canine duo, are the radiant stars that illuminate my daily existence. Whether returning from the grind of a long workday or a brief mailbox venture, the air is filled with their excited symphony—joyful squeals, eager whimpers, and tails creating a percussion against the walls. Their infectious enthusiasm transforms mundane neighborhood walks and adventurous hikes into moments of pure bliss, serving as a gentle nudge to slow down and relish life’s simple pleasures.
In the absence of their endearing faces, my world would echo with a palpable loneliness. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to claim Millie and Finn as mine, two extraordinary souls whose presence turns the ordinary into the extraordinary.
-Abbie Harrison, associate editorial director
Riley
Riley, my extraordinary poodle companion, etched herself into my heart with a repertoire of unforgettable antics that set her apart in the world of canine mischief. While her silliness might rival other dogs, Riley’s cunning maneuvers, matched against often bewildered humans, crafted a treasury of cherished memories.
A maestro of culinary heists, she pilfered barbecued chicken from plates, liberated pork tenderloins from unsuspecting slow cookers, and boldly claimed ownership of countless pairs of underwear, including those belonging to our bewildered guests. With her advantageous height, Riley perfected the art of countertop raids, prompting the strategic relocation of important dishes to the microwave.
Riley’s stare was nothing short of legendary. In moments of beguiling persuasion, she would fixate on you with an intensity capable of softening even the strongest resolve, resting her head on your leg for maximum effect. Yet, her peculiar habit of batting open half-closed doors, standing in the doorway without any intention of entering, added an extra layer of quirkiness to her charm.
The nightly dental treat ritual was a performance worthy of applause. Responding to my mom’s spirited cheers, Riley executed three meticulously timed leaps into the kitchen, returning to the living room with a triumphant trot, proudly displaying her earned prize.
Beyond her entertaining escapades, Riley embodied the essence of a loyal and affectionate companion. A steadfast presence for 15 years, she bore witness to my transformation from a gangly high schooler to a somewhat less gangly professional. The void left in her absence speaks volumes about the profound impact of her unique canine companionship, and the ache of her absence is deeply felt.
—Austin Cannon, editor