From “Dog Days” to “Cat’s Meow”

Welcome to Pet Talk, an occasional column about homeless pets and related topics. Today we’re discussing some interesting pet phrases. For example, what do the phrases Dog Days of Summer and Dog Day Afternoon refer to?

Here are just a few of the pets currently available for adoption at Flathead County Animal Shelter. To schedule a meet-and-greet appointment, call 406-752-1310.

Here’s a summary from Google AI:

“. . . The terms refer to the hottest, most stifling weeks of the year, which usually fall in July and August . . . when Sirius the Dog Star rises alongside the sun, and the ancient Romans mistakenly believed the combination to be the cause of sweltering summer weather. . .”

And how about The Cat’s Meow?

“. . . coined in the 1920s by American cartoonist Tad Dorgan, it’s a whimsical phrase used to describe something or someone that is outstanding, highly admirable, stylish, or "the best." (Same as the cat's pajamas and the bee's knees, right?)

And how about “Dog Tired?” “…The phrase likely originated in the early 1800s from observing the behavior of working dogs that would exert themselves until they were completely spent.”

And finally, how about the Cat’s got your tongue?

“. . .While popular theories claim it comes from ancient Egyptian punishments or British maritime whippings, there is no historical proof. Linguists generally agree it originated as a nonsensical children's phrase in the late 19th century. . .”

So, did you learn something new today? Hope so! In closing, please be aware that Flathead County Animal Shelter is often full to the max, and adoption fees for adult dogs (5 months to 7 yrs old) are currently being waived. So, if you need a new 4-legged family member please consider adopting one or more homeless pets from the shelter today.

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Looking for a loving companion? Schedule a meet-and-greet appointment with Flathead County Animal Shelter at (406) 752-1310 or visit their website for more information.

Do you know about the low adoption fees and other incentives at Flathead County Animal Shelter? Flathead Shelter Friends also offers a Senior Pet Voucher providing up to $350 toward veterinary care for adopted pets age 7 and older.

Pet Talk is proudly produced by Flathead Shelter Friends, Inc., an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization supporting the animals of Flathead County Animal Shelter.

Donations are always appreciated! Please visit www.flatheadshelterfriends.org.