We’re welcoming the lazy, breezy days of August to the Yard. Plebe Summer winds down in the middle of the month, and the air is full of Annapolis magic—Chesapeake Bay breezes, bushels of crabs laid out on picnic tables with suds to wash them down—and dogs. Everywhere, dogs! It seems like everyone in Annapolis has a dog these days—there are dogs on boats, dogs on the sidewalk and dogs out on patios with their people, enjoying the sun. We just can’t get enough of dogs!
Coincidentally, August also happens to be (a newly named) national dog month! In honor of this occasion, we’ve pulled together some Navy inspired spiritwear and accessories to keep our pets looking and feeling their best. From USNA gear for long walks, to bowls for meal time, to toys they can toss around, these USNA dog treats are sure to please every pup and his person!
Take a Hike!
The trails are calling, and your dog is listening. Now that the weather is perfect for getting outdoors, your pup will want to tag along on the journey. If your pooch suddenly breaks free of their leash or wanders too far, you won’t need to worry. This simple metal N* dog tag is a great identifier and fashionable accessory that can be imprinted with your contact information so your pet is safely returned. The N* (pronounced N Star) logo pays homage to the fierce Army-Navy rivalry [link to July N* blog] and it honors the mutual respect and competition unleashed during every varsity Army-Navy face-off. Your pup can show her Navy pride right on her collar.
As you wander the trails and take in the scenery, you’ll want to ensure that the woods stay beautiful far beyond your hike. You can use this adorable hydrant pet waste bag holder to pick up the mess. Easy to load and refill, it comes with one roll of bags to get you started. It’s small enough to attach to a backpack, leash or belt loop, so you don’t have to hold a thing. With the N* Navy logo, it’s also a great conversation starter at the dog park.
Out to Lunch
Speaking of dog parks, there are some great places in Annapolis for the dogs to play in honor of National Dog Month. If you’re heading to a park, you can bring along a collapsible dog bowl to keep everything neat and tidy. This 8” wonder folds inside a small carry bag to make transporting a breeze. Fill it up with water, kibble or whatever treat you’d like. Your dog will stay happy and you will stay, period. Good human!
If you’re dining at home, this metal dog bowl is a winner every time. With “Go Navy Bite Army” spunk, it lets everyone know who’s top dog. There’s a non-skid ring on the base so it doesn’t move across the floor, and the galvanized steel construction with powder coat navy finish makes it durable and delicious looking! Get several for water and food.
The metal bowls pair perfectly with a USA made Navy pet placemat, and they both make excellent gifts for your favorite dog lovers. Also non-skid to keep things neat, it can be used inside or out, and the Navy logos add a fun touch to mealtime.
Play Time!
What’s even better than mealtime? Play time! We’re partial to this pet rope disc dog toy that features a charging Bill the Goat on the front. Frisbee, tug toy, it’s two-toys-in-one! You and your pup get to exercise together when you heft this thing out 20 yards. Just 7” in diameter, it’s the perfect portable size so you can take it to the park or throw it in the car for your excursions together. It’s fun for everyone!
If you’re not tuckered out from frisbee throwing and tugging, this whimsical paw pet toy will truly do it. A fan favorite, it’s a squeaker toy disguised as a paw. Made with foam, it measures 9” but packs a ton of fun. Give this to your Navy-loving, dog-loving friends and they will thank you. They will also blame you for the squeaking, but they will thank you.
A not-as-noisy option is this basketball tug toy. Dogs cannot resist basketballs. Your pup will think “Go Navy Bite Army'' as he tries to pull this from your grasp. Then you can throw it out a ways, and he’ll bring it right back. Endless entertainment from such a small thing. But that is dogs after all, isn’t it? They provide so much joy yet need so little to be happy. That’s just one of the things we love about them.
Happy National Dog Month! Dogs are one of our favorite pets here at the Naval Academy, and I’m sure over 50 million American households agree, since they are dog lovers too. We are also all Naval Academy lovers, and you can feel extra good about any USNA purchases for your fur babies since 100 percent of Navyonline.com proceeds go right back to the Brigade of Midshipmen. Have fun shopping for these treats for yourself and your best friend/s and enjoy the dog days of summer!
