I realized recently that in the next few weeks, I’m nearing my three year anniversary posting for Widow’s Voice, my not-to-be achieved 30th wedding anniversary date, and the 4th anniversary of Rich’s passing. I don’t have to dig too deep to find something to write about.
But, I’d be remiss if I didn’t inform that this Monday, September 22nd, brings the official fun commencement of National Dog Week, a seven day celebration of the human-canine bond established in 1928 by Captain Wm. Lewis Judy, a man trained in the ministry, WWI Veteran, and a pioneer in the World of Dog. He published Dog World Magazine for decades. He was also a prolific author and editor, and some of his most profound works weren’t even focused on dogs. For me, what really made him ahead of his time, however, was how he honored the emotional lives of dogs.
I “discovered” the existence of National Dog Week back in 2020 and quickly became obsessed with its origins. I began to chronicle its place in American Canine History. During this time, I was fortunate to partner with a literary agent (thank you Donna Eastman) and in 2014 Dog’s Best Friend: Will Judy, Founder of National Dog Week and Dog World Publisher was acquired by publisher, McFarland & Co., with a beautiful cover that has a special story of its own.
The writing and research of that book brought into my life a new appreciation for those who work in the professional dog industry, and those who tirelessly work to make sure every dog gets their (its) day, as the saying goes. For nearly a decade, I maintained a blog to promote that book and educate the public about this unique Awareness Observation that STILL occurs the last FULL week of September each year.
There were times when I had more energy and motivation to have a theme declared with a corresponding logo or image. I still post on the National Dog Week Facebook Page nearly every week. I established that site some years ago, and will post their frequently especially during this one. When I post year-round I occasionally get a “helpful” comment letting me know that it isn’t actually National Dog Week. I get messages addressed to “Dear Sir” with the assumption only a male would promote such an occasion, and I’ve been asked where the National Dog Week Headquarters are when in truth I’m often posting from my bed, half-awake with my coffee.
Will Judy also co-founded the Dog Writers Association of America (DWAA) in 1935. I currently serve as a board member for the DWAA and I’ve had the honor of receiving the DWAA’s prestigious Maxwell Medallion and a Special Award and Grant for my writing on dogs. Currently, the DWAA Writing Competition is actively accepting entries for members and non-members. You can check it out here. https://dogwriters.org/writing-categories/#
The DWAA awards reception is held in NYC each winter in conjunction with Westminster. I’ve been busy helping to plan a Cocktail Reception where winners are announced in mid-town Manhattan. But, closer to home, I continue to support my local rescue. This week I will meet with the management of a local waterfront establishment to discuss some fun collaborations.
I adopted my dog, Jackson from the Animal Rescue Konsortium (ARK) in Crescent City, FL. ARK is currently in the initial stage of a much-needed Spay and Neuter and Animal Health Mobile Unit program that will serve this entire rural Florida community. My other rescue, Winnie will become a patient next week!
Each day, when I visit a few of the online sites for the widowed population, without fail there a comments extolling the role their dogs, and other pets, play in helping them cope in their grief. For many, their pets are all they have in their lives – steady companions that give and need love and provide a daily purpose for keeping on.
Happy National Dog Week. I know for many, every week is a dog week, but to honor an official Awareness Observation, I hope you’ll join us over on the NDW Facebook Page and give it a little LIKE! https://www.facebook.com/NatDogWeek/
