Dog Days, Spa Days, & School Days
By Sarah Church, President Mission Hills BID, co-owner Pizza e Birra
August has quickly arrived and the dog days of summer remind us that we are barely revving up! You may have heard that catchy idiom a handful of times, “dog days of summer,” but have you ever actually known what it means? The dog days of summer refer to the annual time between July 3 and August 11 when summer is in full swing, as well as the heat. There is something called a “thermal lag” during this time, where oceans and ground have a delayed period of absorbing and releasing solar energy which creates our lovely peak summer temps; summer temps that may leave you feeling like a cat on a hot tin roof. I’ll leave that one as homework for you to research the meaning behind. If you’ve had enough science and literature lessons, let me cut straight to the point — August brings us International Cat Day (August 8) and International Dog Day (August 26). What a way to honor our furry friends by highlighting the ways we can pamper and spoil them right here in Mission Hills.
Besties DogSpa, located at 3951 Goldfinch Street, is a full service dog grooming salon offering a variety of services with the intent of “making your visit as convenient and successful as possible.” The options range in accommodating creative grooming and full bath services, with pricing largely based on your dog’s weight. They also offer additional add-ons for specialized pampering specifically for your pup.
Another great Mission Hills destination that accommodates all the needs and goodies for dogs and cats alike is Howlistic, located at 930 W Washington, suite #7. With a convenient option of in-store browsing or curbside pick-up, Howlistic offers a self-serve dog wash, and a variety of natural pet foods, treats, and products sourced to treat your furry ones with care.
Now if all that cat and dog pampering has tired you out, do not fret. Sandwiched between these two four-legged-focused days, is National Relaxation Day on August 15th, and what a perfect way to ease your body and mind with a mid-month treat at one of our neighborhood’s many spa and relaxation destinations. If you could use a massage, a relaxing facial, or a consultation for custom services and treatments, there are options within walking distance from just about everywhere in Mission Hills. Saffron & Sage at 2555 State Street, Suite 1; Firefly Spa at 4024 Ibis Street, Suite A; or AyurVida Wellness & Clinic at 1611 W Lewis Street are all neighborhood favorites that will surely have you feeling some summer bliss.
Whether you are a long time reader or first time follower, check out our Mission Hills BID website for our business directory of places to relax, unwind, and treat yourself to some well-deserved pampering.
Lastly, as summer begins to wind down, August traditionally brings us the bittersweet date of students returning to school. (Bitter for the kiddos, usually sweet for the parents.) But school being in session doesn’t have to entirely stop the summer fun. Sun still sets late and businesses are ready to cater to your start of the school year and after-school needs. Both the Mission Hills Library and The Library Shop – Mission Hills can help by finding the next great read, picking up an educational gift, or discovering something that makes learning a bit more fun.
Well dear readers, before I BID you adieu, I hope I’ve left you hungry for more…which is why it is the perfect time to let you in on a little reminder. Our 14th Annual Taste of Mission Hills plans are underway and will take place on Wednesday October 14, 2026. Ticket pricing, purchasing information, and the list of wonderful participating Mission Hills dining establishments will be announced soon, so be sure to stay informed by checking our website, grabbing your September copy of the Presidio Sentinel, and following any of our social media platforms.
In the meantime, enjoy everything August has to offer, spoil your pets, continue supporting our local businesses, and we’ll look forward to seeing you this fall at the Taste of Mission Hills.
Category: Animals, Business, Local News, Pets
