I may be a little late on the calendar on this one, but I still have to ask, why do they call this time of year “the dog days of summer”?  I would think “dog days” would connote a bright, shiny, clean-air day providing the best platform for outdoor activities, be it chasing a squirrel or sunbathing on the patio – not smoggy, hot, oppressive conditions that promote shedding, scratching and air conditioning.

Then again, in a presidential election year like this,  the “dog days” can indeed be oppressive and unpleasant, with negative ads, repetitious chest pounding and finger pointing creating more hot air than a Bermuda high or two malamutes in heat.  The pack has now been reduced to the “wise old dog” and the “young energized pup.”  Pretty much a question of style and perception since they’re both politicians.  Being a young pup myself I can see the value of an energetic, well-groomed candidate with good manners.  The older guy appears to be losing some fur, seems a little nippy and may be just a little too set in his ways…well anyway, the fur is gonna fly.  Of course, as in any dog fight, my money is usually on the younger hound in any long, drawn out fracas.