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Hug Your Hound Day

September 1, 2022

Hug Your Hound Day is coming up on September 11th. Our canine buddies are amazingly loving and loyal, and definitely earned this special day. However, hugging Fido may be a bit more complicated than you’d think. A Roanoke, VA vet offers some insight on this below.

A New Day

Hug Your Hound Day was started back in 2002 by Ami Moore, a professional dog behaviorist who is known as Chicago’s Dog Whisperer. Moore wanted to remind people of the special bond we can form with our oldest furry friends. The day takes place each year on the second Sunday of September each year. Ironically, that just happens to be perfect dog walking weather!

Hugging

Believe it or not, hugging Fido isn’t always a good idea. As it turns out, many pups don’t like hugs. Dogs don’t see hugs the way we do, because hugs don’t really translate very well into doggy language. In fact, our canine pals see hugs as a form of dominance, so to them it’s closer to a wrestling move than a show of affection. That’s not to say that your own pooch won’t enjoy it when you hug him. However, you should never hug strange or nervous dogs.

Acceptable Alternatives

So if hugging Fido isn’t a good idea, what do you do instead? Well, there are plenty of ways to get that cute tail going. Treats and toys are of course the obvious choices, but your pet will also appreciate a long walk or play session. Your pooch may also enjoy a new bed. Of course, the most important thing is to just spend time with your furry best friend, and help solidify that special friendship we share with our canine companions.

Dogs That Need Hugs

At the end of the day, hugs really are a sign of affection, comfort, friendship, and/or love. These are all things that Fido truly needs. And while your own pet may not be lacking in any of these areas, there are plenty of pups that are. Consider volunteering at a local shelter or animal rescue. If you want to go further, you may even want to look at fostering. This is a wonderful way to help dogs that need love the most!

Please contact us with any questions about your dog’s health or care. As your local Roanoke, VA pet clinic, we’re here to help!

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