Hiking in the woods, swimming in the lake, watching the sun go down – all made better when you have someone to share it, especially if they have four legs, a fur coat and a wet nose.

The Sounder is launching a short story contest “The dog days of summer,” giving you a chance to tell us and your community about you and any canine experience that makes a good tale. The contest is open to anyone age 13 and up.

Submission deadline is July 18, 5 p.m. Stories must not exceed 500 words and can be sent to editor@islandssounder.com. You can also submit online: http://goo.gl/0J4lD.

Sounder staff will pick the top five stories, which will then be judged by islanders online. The winner’s story – and the two runners up – will be featured in the Islands’ Sounder. The grand prize winner will also receive dog-oriented booty.

The contest is part of a special section all about island dogs to publish Aug. 1. We are offering special rates on “Love Notes” to your canine. If you’d like to showcase a photo and short caption of why your pooch is amazing, send an email to editor@islandssounder.com. We are also featuring “Dogs in Business.” If you have a pet that accompanies you to work, let us know.

Our dogs are there with us through it all. They see us at our best and our worst, and they are still loping along at our sides, eager for the next adventure. Share your charming, embarrassing, heartwarming tales of puppy love.