As we slide into October soon, recognize that there is a special day on October 1st each year where we celebrate our four-legged firefighters. National Fire Pup Day is dedicated to the original firehouse mascots who made their mark, not with a hose, but with a bark! Let's jump in the time machine - this includes Dalmatians because, as it turns out, these dapper dogs had a knack for hanging out with horses back in the day when fire trucks were horse-drawn. These spotty babes would run alongside the carriages, clearing the way and keeping the horses calm amidst the chaos. Think of them as the original sirens - minus the noise pollution. And, when the fire was out, they’d curl up with the horses in the stable, proving that even back then, they knew the importance of a good cuddle. Adorable, right?

Fast forward to today, and while fire trucks no longer need canine escorts (or horses, for that matter), fire pups still play a vital role. Now, they serve as mascots, morale boosters, and educators in firehouses across the country. They're the friendly faces at school fire safety events, reminding kids that "stop, drop, and roll" isn’t just a fun game, but an essential safety skill. And let’s be honest, if a dog told you to check your smoke detectors, you’d probably do it, right?

Now that we're done with the time machine, today’s fire pups come in all shapes, sizes, and breeds. From Golden Retrievers spreading cheer to German Shepherds assisting with search and rescue missions, these dogs prove that heroes wear fur. They might not be wielding an ax or sliding down a pole (although that would be quite the trick!), but they’re still on the front lines of community service.

So on October 1st, raise a paw to the fire pups—past, present, and future. Whether they’re Dalmatians, Labradors, or mixed breeds, these dogs have found a way to make the world a safer and more snuggly place. My dog is great at warning me when something seems off, including smoke or smells. He's a tiny hero as well and then, inevitably, he reminds me that every hero deserves belly rubs.