My dear friends,

I recently heard a human referring to the “dog days of summer”. Excuse me? Dog days? Feline superiority is so obvious, it just seemed wrong that any seasonal reference should be named after dogs. I wasn’t entirely sure, though, so I did a little research.

It turns out these are actually the dog days of summer, named as such in reference to Sirius, the dog star. But here’s the thing: there does not seem to be any agreement on when exactly the dog days are. The dates I found ranged from early July through August 24, depending on who you talk to. I even learned that the “civilized” people in ancient Rome sacrificed a dog in April as part of their observance of the dog days. I especially don’t get that last part. First of all, in April? And a dog sacrifice? Good heavens, I’m not a fan of those other four-pawed creatures, but that ritual is a bit unreasonable, wouldn’t you say?

Cats, you will not be surprised to learn, are much more precise (and more loving) in our honorary celebrations. For instance, there’s Hug Your Cat Day on June 4. Even I will succumb to an affectionate squish for that. And National Cat Day is October 29 (mark your calendars now!) August, however, is my favorite, in spite of the “dog days” moniker. That’s because we celebrate me twice in short order.

First, we had International Cat Day last week, on August 8. My correspondent came to visit and sat with me on the floor, petting me and giving me gentle knuckle rubs in the corners of my eyes. Bliss!

Even better, coming up on the 17th is Black Cat Appreciation Day, a.k.a. Appreciate Boots in Particular Day! You know you’re special when a whole day is dedicated just for you. I will be receiving worshippers visitors gladly; no need to make an appointment. Knuckle rubs would be most welcome.

And as long as we’re sharing the love so freely, I hereby declare today, August 15, Boots’ Favorite People Appreciation Day! That’s for you, my best good friends. I know I can come across as regal or unapproachably majestic sometimes – it’s the prerogative of a cat – but you are so very important to me. The only way I can thank you enough for loving me so much is to love you back, double! Head bonks and blinks to each of you.

Much love,
Boots