As the dog days of summer arrive, so does Discovery Family’s month-long salute to pets, appropriately called “Pawgust.”
Also appropriate is the host of Pawgust. In what a press release calls “pawfully exciting news,” the lovely and ubiquitous Betty White is hosting the event, which will include animal-themed series, specials and movies. White and her Golden Retriever, Auggie, will also appear in Pawgust promos throughout the month, like this one.
“August traditionally finds the country embroiled in the dog days of summer, so we’re bringing the pawsitively best in programming about pets — and of course, man’s best friend — to help audiences beat the heat,” said Tom Cosgrove, general manager of Discovery Family.
In addition to the programming, DiscoveryFamilyChannel.com will be streaming “Pawesome Paws” microsodes featuring animals from the network’s shows. Discovery Family has also created an Instagram account and launched the social-media campaign, “Show Us Your Paws!” People are encouraged to take photos of their pets’ paws and post them with the hashtag #Pawgust.
Curl up with your pooch and enjoy the following programs during Pawgust. (All of the times are Eastern/Pacific; the shows start an hour earlier in Central Time.)
From Wags to Riches with Bill Berloni
This new hour-long reality series provides a look at the life of Bill Berloni, who trains rescued shelter dogs for Broadway shows, movies and television shows. At 19, Berloni trained his first dog for the role of Sandy in the original 1977 Broadway production of “Annie.” Coming full circle, Berloni trained another Sandy for last year’s “Annie” movie remake. Each episode of “From Wags to Riches” will show Berloni working as an animal trainer and rescuer, and relaxing at home with his two-legged family members as well as 41 pets, including ducklings and a donkey. Premieres Aug. 6 at 9 p.m.
Yappy Hour
This 60-minute programming block will include the show, “Funniest Pets and People,” and repeats of previous Pawgust programs. Premieres Aug. 3 at 5 p.m.
Secrets of the Dog Park
This special premieres Aug. 6 at 10 p.m.
Pets Make You Laugh Out Loud
This series debuts Aug. 7 at 8 p.m.
Movie Nights
Movies will air on Monday, Saturday and Sunday nights, kicking off with “101 Dalmatians” on Aug. 1 at 8 p.m. Other pup-themed movies to be shown during the month include “All Dogs Go to Heaven” and “Hotel for Dogs.”
Photo: YouTube