Dog Days

"Dog Days" (Latin: diēs caniculārēs) are the hottest, most sultry days of summer. In the northern hemisphere, they usually fall between early July and early September. In the southern hemisphere they are usually between January and early March. The actual dates vary greatly from region to region, depending on latitude and climate. Dog Days can also define a time period or event that is very hot or stagnant, or marked by dull lack of progress. The name comes from the ancient belief that Sirius, also called the Dog Star, in close proximity to the sun was responsible for the hot weather.

Though our weather has been far from hot and sultry of late this stagnant phase or 'lack of progress' sums up perfectly my lethargy and recent inability to write my blog.. or any other script for that reason. In fact I have noticed that my handwriting has suffered terribly since I became a slave to the keyboard.. Holding a pen feels quite alien these days.. which is regrettable as I once loved penning letters to friends and family.. but now I am ashamed of my spidery scrawl.
Anyway.. I digress...
My definition of dog days not only refers to this current state of inertia but of my fondness for a particular type of dog..

Dog |dôg|
noun
1 a domesticated carnivorous mammal that typically has a long snout, an acute sense of smell, and a barking, howling, or whining voice. It is widely kept as a pet or for work or field sports. • Canis familiaris, family Canidae (the dog family); probably domesticated from the wolf in the Mesolithic period. The dog family also includes the wolves, coyotes, jackals, and foxes.

Nowhere in the definition of the word dog does it mention that they can be made of straw or mohair or have felt paws or glass eyes... but these are qualities that I have sought when collecting my favourite species of these four legged friends. I have always been a cat person.. having owned my first beloved 'Tigger' a tabby farm cat from the age of four. Tigger was half cat half monster and when not being a fluffy purring puddy tat.. was busy shopping for mice and next door's fantail doves, to bring home as unwanted gifts. Several cats later..

I have my darling 'Pickles' 'Mr Pig' 'Woo Woo' 'Piggly' just a few of the names I have given this half cat half human beast. He is one of a kind and I have vowed that come that fateful day when we have to say goodbye to this unique and adorable creature.. he will be stuffed to join my collection of moth eaten canines.

But back to dogs...
I cannot resist a vintage pooch and they come in all shapes, sizes and dubious pedigrees..
For instance..
This is 'Wilbur'... an unknown breed of mohair and straw with the most quizzical eyes..


Then there is 'Buster' who looks much more ferocious than he is.. he's a pussy cat really..


Mabel.. a girl of refined tastes and demeanour ...

'Pickles' not to be confused with my own version ...

Ethel... a quiet lass but most useful for storing pyjamas.. or those illicit midnight snacks!

'Harry' .. such a spirited and handsome little chap ...


Finally ..'Arthur'.. an all round champion and particularly nifty on his wheels..

There are several other members of my pooch family who are rather shy and retiring and refused to be put under the spotlight.. However you can meet a fair few of my Kennel Club at the Vintage & Handmade Fair in November where they will be groomed and preened to look their best. Give them a Bonio and they will be a friend for life! There are also some fine Heinz 57's in the emporium if you fancy adopting a furry friend.

Not forgetting the moggies...

..... though they prefer cat nip please!