Have a Howly, Happy Wolfenoot!

Happy Wolfenoot, though the official greeting is "Have a howly Wolfenoot."

In case you aren't already in the "Wolfenati," Wolfenoot is a new holiday to celebrate the "Spirit of Wolves" and those who are kind to dogs. (I can feel my dog Taz in heaven smiling at this one, and I hope he would help get me extra gifts.)

Created by a 7-year old in New Zealand, it occurs annually on November 23rd around the world. His mother, author Jax Goss' explains her son chose the date because it is "the anniversary of the Great Wolf's Death." According to the Wolfenoot website, on this day the "Spirit of the Wolf brings and hides small gifts around the house for everyone. People who have, have had, or are kind to dogs get better gifts than anyone else."

The holiday has garnered coverage in Time, Chicago Tribune, and around the world. Proving something we already knew...people like dogs and wolves.

While the "official" ways to celebrate include roasting meat and decorating a cake like the full moon, I have a few suggestions of my own:

• Watch a dog movie such as All Dogs go to Heaven, Lassie, Old Yeller (if your heart can handle it), Benji, Marley & Me, A Dog's Purpose (getting teary just thinking about it), Isle of Dogs, or new release Alpha.

• Display dog's photos prominently in your house, or post a photo of your dog on social media.

• Wear clothes with dogs and wolves on them--I have my wolf sweatshirt on right now as I type this

• Educate yourself on wolves and protection, read more here

• Donate money, food or other needed items to a local wolf sanctuary or dog shelter

My hope for this amazing holiday would also bring more awareness to wolves. With the recent passing of Manage our Wolves in the U.S. House Bill H.R. 6784 dog descendants need our help now more than ever. At the beginning of the 20th century, gray wolves were almost wiped out from trophy hunting and "livestock protection." The bill was overwhelmingly passed by Republicans and was a close call at 196 versus 180 votes. The main argument for wolf control often surrounds lifestock, though basic scientific research suggests there is a small percentage of loss and small measures for the ranchers can minimize loss significantly.

May this Wolfenoot bring you howling, loyalty, and lots of tail wags.

Learn more on the official website, follow the pack on Facebook or Twitter, or shop Wolfeloot.