Dogs bring cheer to Sao Paulo, and Indian Wells

Another of those random "awareness" days, Love Your Pet Day, and the Brasil Open itself are both recently in the rear-view mirror, but that doesn't detract from the ongoing presence of pups on the pro tennis tours.

With the likes of the Williams sisters, Caroline Wozniacki, Alexander Zverev, John Isner and others participating in the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, the tournament practically necessitates a doggy daycare zone.

The historical connection between canines and cans of tennis balls goes deeper than a simple game of tossing the fuzzy yellow orbs so as to wear out a furry best friend. Sure, we dog owners (read: human servants) try to make "fetch" happen repeatedly in our lives, but dogs can double as wordless confidants after a tough match loss and provide moments of levity during a practice session.

Consider how Venus Williams notes that, more than anything, she doesn't want vacation time. She travels so much that all she truly wants is to be home. In taking her beloved dog Harold with her on tour, she has a furry, sometimes "stinky" sliver of home with her at most all times. That can ground a player—physically and emotionally—during the relative doldrums of life on tour and in and out of hotels and airports.

To the dogs of the ATP and WTA tours, we salute you. And we covet your passport stamps.

Follow Jon on Twitter: @jonscott9.