“My philosophy is, if you’re not covered in dog hair, your life is empty.”

Remember coming home from a grueling day where everything seemed to turn against you? You unlock the door and there she is, running up to you, her tail wagging, happy whimpers and she nearly knocks you over to lick your tears away, as if she hasn’t seen you in twenty years.

Dogs are hilarious and they don’t hold it against us when we make them wear silly hats and sunglasses. Dogs happily slurp any food we drop on the floor. They only want a warm bed, belly rubs and walks in the park. But go that extra mile today. I’m not suggesting a spa day, but instead of walking around the block, you could take your dog to the dog park to socialize with other dogs and chase frisbees.

Go to a river or beach or lake and let her swim, or just spend time together cuddling on the couch binge watching “The Mandalorian” or a Dodgers double header on TV. Make some healthy homemade dog treats or get a new toy!

In all honesty, dogs don’t really care what you do with them, as long as you’re spending time together. Whatever your dog’s favorite together-time, today you should deliver it with a little more thought and some heartfelt appreciation for what your dog adds to your life . . .

unconditional love.