A Letter from the Chairman

Dear Members,

I hope this message finds you well as we head into the Dog Days of Summer. This phrase

actually dates back to ancient times. It refers to the period from July 3 to August 11, when the

star Sirius, also known as the Dog Star, rises and sets with the sun. The ancient Greeks and

Romans believed that Sirius’s appearance in the sky added extra heat to the sun’s rays, making

this stretch of summer especially oppressive. Of course, we now know it’s Earth’s tilt—not

Sirius—that’s to blame for the heat. But the name stuck, and today the “dog days” are simply

known as the hottest, most sultry part of summer.

At the Center for Canine Behavior Studies (CCBS), we remain committed to our mission to

deepen the bond between humans and dogs while reducing behavioral issues that lead to shelter

surrenders or euthanasia. We all know that dogs are more than pets; they are cherished family

members, bringing joy, companionship, and love into our lives. Yet, with this profound

connection comes a responsibility to understand and respect their unique nature as animals.

Dogs hold a special place in our hearts and homes, often treated as integral parts of the family.

However, it is critical to recognize that dogs are not human. They possess instincts and

behaviors—such as territoriality, food guarding, or stress responses—that differ significantly

from human communication. Misinterpreting these signals, such as yawning, turning away, or

body stiffening, can lead to unintended consequences, including bites. By understanding canine

behavior and being more vigilant to their signals, we can foster safer and more harmonious

relationships with our dogs. More importantly, we can help ensure a safe relationship between

our dogs and children.

Dog bites remain a significant public health concern, with an estimated 4.7 million incidents

occurring annually in the United States, approximately half involving children. While the vast

majority of dog bites to children are nonfatal, these incidents can cause severe and traumatic

physical and emotional trauma. The consequences of a bite can be life-altering, particularly for

young children, who are often bitten in the head or neck region due to their proximity to dogs.

Tragically, many family dog bites are preventable through education and vigilance.

To address this challenge, CCBS champions the Be BiteSmart (BBS) initiative, a comprehensive

age-appropriate video education program designed to reduce dog bite risks for families,

particularly those with children. BBS videos will equip adults and children with the knowledge

to recognize canine body language and stress triggers, such as a stiffened posture or averted gaze, and to practice safe interaction techniques. Unlike approaches that focus on specific breeds, BBS adopts a universal perspective, acknowledging that any dog, regardless of breed, has the potential to bite under certain circumstances. This inclusive approach ensures that all family members, particularly children, are prepared to interact safely with their dog to prevent an avoidable bite.

As we move forward, I urge all CCBS members to follow and engage in our Be BiteSmart

initiative. Share our age-appropriate video and coloring book resources with friends and family. Give a donation to support our work. Every step toward greater awareness contributes to safer environments for both dogs and humans. By promoting responsible pet ownership and understanding that dogs, while beloved family members, require informed stewardship, we can prevent tragic incidents to our children and support our mission to keep dogs in loving homes. Together, we can make a lasting difference.

Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to the Center for Canine Behavior

Studies.

Warm regards,

Chris Janelli, Chairman

Center for Canine Behavior Studies