Dear Friends,
Some of you may have noticed that Emma’s video did not appear in the email version of the March post. The full video is available on the website.
Please visit her website or click below to visit the blog and hear Emma’s special welcome.
emmathewhitedog.com
Gadgets, Coffee, and Lunch with Friends
By Emma the White Dog
Before we begin, I have something special this month.
Please click on the photo below to hear my personal welcome and introduction to Life with Emma in the Desert for March. I had quite a bit to say… and Dad finally let me say it on video. 🎬🐾
A New Gadget Arrives
Here we are well into 2026 and there is still not a dull moment around this house.
Recently a box arrived labeled Tempest, and naturally I assisted Dad with the opening process. Supervising is very important work.
Inside was Dad’s brand-new weather station, which now lives proudly mounted on our back fence.
This gadget reports temperature, barometer readings, wind speed, rainfall, humidity, lightning activity, and things I didn’t even know the sky was capable of doing. All of this information goes straight to Dad’s phone and even his watch.
Now, I don’t mean to sound overly practical… but I’ve always believed that if you look out the door and it seems good for a walk, then it is good for a walk.
I do seem to remember someone called the Bard once saying something about “much ado about nothing.” That may apply here. But Dad enjoys checking his charts and graphs, and I’ve learned something very important:
A happy Dad is a very good thing to have around the house.
So I humor the weather station.
More New Gadgets
But wait — we are not done.
A while back Dad purchased a rather fancy coffee maker and became very serious about his morning routine. After our walk, he makes a cup of coffee and then studies his phone. I’m not entirely sure what he’s doing, but it looks complicated and keeps him quite busy.
Then came the coffee grinder.
Now he grinds his own beans for “optimal flavor extraction.” I suspect we may once again be approaching that “much ado…” territory.
However — this development has brought me an unexpected benefit.
We now travel to coffee roasters in search of special beans. And let me tell you, a dog’s nose at a coffee roaster is a magnificent thing. So many aromas. So many friendly people. So many opportunities to be admired.
Perhaps it is all a bit elaborate… but it gets us out exploring, and that means new adventures. I fully support adventures.
Lunch with Friends
Recently we went to lunch with our favorite neighbors, Jo and Joe.
We dined at a lovely Italian restaurant that was truly delicious. While my poodle and bichon heritage may be proudly French, Italian cuisine did not feel foreign to me at all.
I felt quite continental.
And here is something very special — Joanne designed and created my business card. She keeps Dad supplied so he can hand them out whenever we meet new friends. I consider this excellent marketing.
Lunch was full of conversation, laughter, and warm friendship. Days like that remind me that gadgets and coffee are fun… but people are what truly matter.
A Thought Before We Finish…
Gadgets are interesting. Coffee is serious business. Lunch with friends is delightful.
But after all the activity of February, I found myself thinking about something quieter — something deeper. A reader recently asked a question that made me pause (which, as you know, is not something I do often unless a squirrel is involved).
So let’s settle in for this month’s Ask Emma.
Ask Emma
I’ve heard dogs live mostly in the present. How do they deal with the past and the future?
That’s a wonderful question — and one dogs understand very well.
It’s true: we live mostly in the now. Right now smells interesting. Right now you’re here. Right now the sun is warm, the floor is cool, or dinner might be coming. This doesn’t mean we lack memory or awareness — it just means we don’t let time boss us around the way humans often do.
Dogs absolutely remember the past. We remember people who were kind, routines that made us feel safe, and places where good things happened. Sometimes we also remember things that were scary or confusing. Those memories live in our bodies more than in our thoughts. A sound, a tone of voice, or a sudden movement can remind us of something long ago without us “thinking” about it the way humans do.
What’s different is that dogs don’t replay the past over and over. Once something is over, it tends to stay there — unless something in the present brings it back. When dogs have had difficult experiences, what helps most is not talking about the past, but creating new, safe patterns in the present. Consistency, kindness, and patience slowly rewrite those old memories.
As for the future — dogs don’t worry about it.
We don’t lie awake wondering what might happen next week or whether things will turn out okay. We do understand patterns, though. We know when it’s almost time for a walk, a meal, or your return home. That’s not worry — that’s trust built from experience. When good things usually happen, we expect them to happen again.
Living this way is surprisingly peaceful. Dogs don’t regret yesterday or fear tomorrow. We focus on what’s in front of us: your voice, your touch, your presence. That’s where our happiness lives.
Humans sometimes say they wish they could live more like dogs. From our perspective, you already can. When you slow down, notice small joys, and give your attention fully to the moment you’re in, you’re meeting us right where we live.
And trust me — we love it when you do.
With love and wagging optimism,
Emma 🐾
Have a question for me? I’d love to hear from you!
Email emmathewhitedog@gmail.com, and I might answer it in a future blog.
To subscribe to Life with Emma in the Desert, enter your email below and click Subscribe so future posts arrive in your inbox.
Getting Groomed, Making Friends, and Keeping an Eye on Things
By Emma the White Dog
Here we are, well into 2026, and getting nicely settled into life again. Dad says routines are good for us, and I agree—as long as those routines include walks, naps, and the occasional compliment.
Recently, both Dad and I had grooming sessions. Mine came first, of course.
My Grooming Day
I went to see my groomer, Stephanie, who I actually like very much. She knows how to take good care of me, talks to me the whole time, and somehow makes me feel both fluffy and dignified when we’re done. I always come home feeling lighter, cleaner, and just a little bit proud of myself.
Dad’s Grooming Day
The very next day, Dad went to his groomer. He calls it his barber, but honestly, it seems a lot like my grooming—just not all over his body. Fewer brushes, no nail trim, and no one tells him he’s a “good boy,” which feels like a missed opportunity.
His barber was a very nice young man, and I rode along in my stroller so I could supervise. I watched carefully to make sure Dad was being well cared for. Everything checked out. Dad came out looking neat, relaxed, and still very much like himself, which is important.
Meeting the People Who Take Care of Our Community
One of my favorite things about living here is meeting the wonderful people who work so hard to keep SaddleBrooke looking good and running smoothly. Recently, I met one of those nice fellows while he was working, and we had a very friendly conversation. I thanked him for taking such good care of our home—because someone has to acknowledge these things.
A Very Important Patrol Pup Idea
I also recently met one of our SaddleBrooke patrol officers—the kind humans who help keep our community safe. He was very friendly, and I listened closely while he talked with Dad. I think I heard something about me becoming an honorary patrol officer.
A patrol pup?
Now that sounds like fun. I imagine I’d be very good at neighborhood watch, greeting residents, and reminding everyone to slow down and enjoy their walk. I’m just not sure where I’d wear my badge. On my collar? My harness? Hmmmm… something to think about.
Lunch With Friends
I also had a wonderful time recently when I went to lunch with my friend Echo at SaddleBrooke Ranch. Echo and I both brought our humans, and it was especially nice because we hadn’t all been together for a while. There was lots of catching up, laughing, and good company all around.
It reminded me how important it is for all of us—dogs and humans—to spend time with friends. Staying connected, sharing a meal, and enjoying one another’s company is good for the heart and good for the soul. I think it’s one of the healthiest habits there is.
This Month’s Ask Emma
Q: Can dogs smell or sense disease in humans?
— Wondering in Unit 12
Hi friend,
Yes, we absolutely can—at least some of us! Our sense of smell is thousands of times more sensitive than yours, and that means we can pick up all sorts of things you can’t. Changes in your scent, body chemistry, or behavior? We notice.
Some specially trained dogs can detect cancer, low blood sugar, seizures, and even COVID-19—all just by sniffing! And even without training, many of us notice when something feels “off.” I’ve heard stories of dogs who became extra clingy or alert just before their humans received a diagnosis they didn’t expect.
Now, I’m not a medical dog (I skipped vet school), but I do know when Dad is stressed, sad, or just a little “off.” I stick close, offer cuddles, and sometimes nudge him with my nose just to say, I’m here. I know.
I do have first-paw experience with illness and humans. My human mom, Joanne, passed away three years ago this February from cancer. When she became sick, I didn’t need words or explanations—I just knew. I stayed close, rested quietly by her side, and offered what dogs do best: calm presence, warmth, and unconditional love.
When Joanne was gone, I also knew when it was time to turn my heart toward my human Dad. I stayed near, watched over him, and still do—checking in, offering comfort, and reminding him every day that love doesn’t disappear when someone is gone. It just changes shape, and dogs are very good at holding it.
So if your dog seems especially tuned in to you, trust that it comes from a place of deep love, quiet understanding, and a nose that knows more than we’ll ever admit. Sometimes the most important care doesn’t come from medicine, but from simply not being alone.
Paws and good health,
🐾 Emma
Have a question for me? I’d love to hear from you!
Email emmathewhitedog@gmail.com, and I might answer it in a future blog.
To subscribe to Life with Emma in the Desert, enter your email below and click Subscribe so future posts arrive in your inbox.
Holidays, Old Friends, and New Beginnings
by Emma the White Dog
We made it through the holiday season, and I have to say — it was a very good one. Christmas Eve day turned out to be especially special for my human, Bill, and for me too.
Some of Dad’s longtime friends from Colorado were visiting Tucson, and we met them for lunch on Christmas Eve. We hadn’t seen each other for several years, so there was a lot to catch up on — stories from the past, what life looks like now, and plenty of laughter in between. I stayed close, listened carefully (dogs are excellent listeners), and enjoyed being right in the middle of it all.
They were curious about my Ask Emma newspaper columns and my website and blog, and I was happy to hear Dad explain how I share a dog’s-eye view of life here in SaddleBrooke. It made my tail wag to know that something that started as a little idea has turned into a way to connect with so many people.
We were also taken such good care of by our server that day. Everything felt easy and unhurried — good food, good company, and the kind of conversation that reminds you how nice it is to reconnect. I posed politely for a photo and made sure to thank our server for helping make the afternoon feel festive and fun.
Emma and our friends, as Emma thanks our server for taking such good care of us.
After that, the holidays slowly settled down, as they tend to do. Decorations came down, routines returned, and things grew a little quieter — which is when I usually find myself thinking.
Sitting on the Rock, Thinking About What Comes Next
Over the holidays, I also spent some time sitting on a big rock near our community center, just watching the world go by. People were walking, golf carts were humming along, and the desert looked calm in that quiet way it gets when things slow down for a moment. I like sitting on rocks. They’re solid. They don’t rush you. They’re good places to think.
Emma on the big rock… thinking.
While I was there, I remembered something a friend had recently told my human, Bill. They said that 2025 was known in the Chinese calendar as the Year of the Snake — a time meant for shedding old layers and preparing for what comes next. I’ll admit it: calendars aren’t really my specialty. I mostly go by mealtimes and walks. But the idea stayed with me, because it felt true.
Last year, it seemed like a lot of us — humans and dogs alike — let go of things. Some people cleared out closets or garages. Some said goodbye to routines that no longer fit. Others had to let go of things they never wanted to lose at all. Dogs notice these changes. We notice when the house feels different, when hearts are heavier, when quiet lasts a little longer than usual. We don’t always understand the reasons, but we understand the feeling.
Whether anyone meant to or not, many of us came through 2025 a little lighter, a little changed, and maybe a little clearer about what matters. And now here we are — 2026 — standing at the beginning of something new.
Humans often talk about New Year’s resolutions, and I’ve noticed they usually sound very serious and a bit stressful. Big promises. Big plans. Dogs don’t really do resolutions. We wake up, stretch, sniff the air, and meet the day as it comes. If yesterday was hard, we try again today. If yesterday was good, we don’t assume tomorrow owes us anything — we just stay open.
Maybe that’s what a new year really needs. Not a long list or a perfect plan, but an open attitude. A willingness to try. A hope for more good days than bad ones, and the patience to accept that both will probably show up. Renewal doesn’t have to be dramatic. Sometimes it’s as simple as paying attention, being kind, or choosing not to carry everything forward just because you always have.
As I sat on my rock, I realized that beginnings don’t always arrive with fireworks or fanfare. Sometimes they arrive quietly — like stillness, reflection, or a small decision to step into the year with curiosity instead of fear.
So as 2026 unfolds, I hope you begin it paw-sitively. Open to what’s new. Gentle with what remains. Ready, when the time is right, to move forward.
With love and wagging optimism,
Emma 🐾
📬 Got a question for me?
Email me at emmathewhitedog@gmail.com and I might answer it in a future post!
To subscribe to Life with Emma in the Desert, enter your email below and click Subscribe so future posts arrive right in your inbox.
By Emma the White Dog 🐾
Hi friends — Emma here! 🐾
It’s a busy season, and I must say… I like it that way. Dad keeps me on the move, and I keep him on schedule. Maybe it’s the holidays that make everything feel more active, or maybe it’s just how we live — but I’ve learned that staying busy, meeting people, and getting things done makes life feel pretty wonderful.
And as always, wherever we go, we meet the nicest people.
A House Call for the Golf Cart
We started things off with a little concern about our golf cart. Dad wanted to be sure everything was running safely, so a very nice fellow came right to our house to check it out. He talked to Dad, patted me hello, and took the time to explain what he was seeing.
Emma with the golf cart technician at home
After a careful look, he gently explained that the cart really needed to go into the shop.
A Sad Ride… and a Happy Return
That was a tough moment for me. One day our cart was being carefully loaded onto a truck to head off for repairs, and I stood there watching, wondering when it would come home.
Emma watching the golf cart being loaded onto the truck
The good news? It didn’t take long at all. Just a few days later, our cart returned — running better than ever and ready for new adventures. I supervised the unloading, of course.
A Helpful Stop at the Hardware Store
Busy days continued when Dad had a little project that sent us to the hardware store. We were fortunate to meet a helpful fellow who listened carefully and came up with just the right solution. Dad was grateful — and so was I.
Emma thanking the helpful hardware store employee
I’ve learned that good ideas often come from kind people who take a moment to help.
Even Busy Dogs Need Rest
Now, as much as I enjoy staying active, even I know when it’s time to slow down. Every busy schedule needs a pause — a moment to rest, relax, and recharge.
Emma resting with her head near her green friend, the Grinch
A little quiet time makes the busy moments even better.
The Season of Good Will
This truly is the season of sharing and good will. One day, while Dad was dropping something into a big red pot outside the grocery store, I spent a moment with a cheerful bell ringer who was helping collect donations for those in need.
: Emma with the bell ringer outside the grocery store
It felt good to be part of something that helps others — especially at this time of year.
Cookies, Friends & a Parade to Remember
One of the highlights of the season was our big night at home before the annual SaddleBrooke Christmas Golf Cart Parade. Friends gathered for cookies, candies, breads, cider, and eggnog. The house was full of laughter, conversation, and holiday cheer.
Emma with friends in front of the Christmas tree
Later, we all settled into the driveway to watch the parade roll by. I had a front-row seat in my stroller — the best spot in the house.
Getting settled for the parade, Emma in her stroller
The carts came by one after another, all decorated with lights and music. Some rolled past slowly, glowing beautifully, while others zoomed by in a blur of colorful lights and holiday sound.
It was magical — and so much fun to share with friends.
A Holiday Goodbye for 2025
As this year comes to a close, this will be my last blog message for 2025. What a year it’s been! I’ve loved sharing our busy, happy, and sometimes surprising life here in the desert with all of you.
Thank you for reading, for smiling along with me, and for being part of my world. I can’t wait to continue this journey in 2026 — who knows what adventures the new year will bring?
Until then, I wish you a very happy holiday season and a joyful, healthy New Year.
With love and wagging optimism,
Emma 🐾
📬 Got a question for me? Email me at emmathewhitedog@gmail.com and I might answer it in a future post!
To subscribe to Life with Emma in the Desert, enter your email below and click Subscribe so future posts arrive in your inbox.
Always Something Going On!
Hi Friends!
Whew…we have been busy again! My human Bill seems to wake up every day thinking of more adventures to keep me entertained. (I’m not complaining — I like being a social desert pup!) But a little extra napping time would be nice. Just saying.
Recently I had my annual visit to my veterinarian. I got a very good report — my heart is strong, my teeth are sparkly, and I’m still adorable (they confirmed it). I really like my vet. She talks to me like I’m the smartest dog around, and I wag extra hard for her.
You know, dogs don’t always love the vet. Some get worried about strange smells and pokes and prods. But seeing the vet is a sign of love — it means humans want us to stay healthy for many more years of walks, cuddles, and kitchen snacks. So I always march in bravely…as long as treats are involved.
Here’s something exciting: my vet’s office is starting a newsletter — and they’re including a link to my website, Life with Emma in the Desert! They told me more readers may soon follow my adventures. Yay! I love making new friends — especially ones with paws. 🐾
After the vet, we headed to the Apple Store because Bill got a new phone. He says he needs it because it has a super camera and he does want it to do justice to me in all the photos he shoots of me. There were so many people, all being helped by friendly tech folks who know how to fix anything with buttons. One nice young man helped Bill set up his phone, and I supervised, of course. Apple Stores are full of bright lights, shiny gadgets…and lots of compliments for a fluffy white dog in a stroller
But our day wasn’t over! My human brother Rick came to visit for Thanksgiving, so we took him out to lunch and then stopped at the car dealer. So many nice people — and everyone wanted to say hello to me. I’m starting to think that maybe I am the real reason for these errands.
Hello December!
Well friends, here we are — December! I can feel the holiday energy all around our neighborhood. Lights twinkle along rooftops, music floats through open doors, and sometimes I even spot a big inflatable snowman waving at me (I give him a polite but cautious side-eye).
Emma is all aglow with the Holidays
Humans celebrate many different holidays during this season — Christmas, Hanukkah, New Year’s, and others too. From a dog’s perspective, the best part is the feeling these holidays bring: warmth, closeness, kindness, laughter, and the delicious smell of something baking in the kitchen.
Here are a few helpful reminders for a safe and happy holiday season for dogs:
Through all of this, the greatest gift a dog could ever ask for is simply being close to you — a cozy snuggle, a slow walk, or resting our head on your knee.
Thanks for reading — and for being part of my desert adventure pack!
I love sharing life with you. 🐶💛
Got a question for me?
Email me at EmmaTheWhiteDog@gmail.com and I might answer it in a future post!
To subscribe to Life with Emma in the Desert, enter your email below and click Subscribe so future posts arrive right in your
By Emma the White Dog 🐾
Hi friends — Emma here! 🐾
We’ve been busy again… meeting people, getting things done, and finishing up one more round of our little moving project. Dad says life always feels better when you stay active and have a little fun — and after these last few days, I think he’s absolutely right. Every time we go out, I meet the nicest people… and they’re all so kind to me!
The U-Haul Adventure
To finish our moving project, Dad and I needed another U-Haul trailer.
A very nice lady helped us at U-Haul — she talked to me, smiled at me, and I even posed for a photo with her.
While Dad was loading everything into the trailer, he packed and stacked and wedged things in so tightly I wasn’t sure it would all fit. I kept looking at the pile and thinking, “Hmm… I don’t know about this, Dad.” But he kept loading… and stuffing… and pushing… and before long, the whole trailer was full! I supervised the whole operation, of course.
A Friendly Visitor From the City of Surprise
Just as Dad was tightening the last straps, a City of Surprise inspector stopped by to check on our new air conditioner installation. He said everything looked great, and he and I got along right away. I liked him so much that we took a picture together.
A Stop at the Bank
Earlier that day I also met the bank manager, who knew exactly where to scratch behind my ear. What a nice man! I sat proudly next to him for our photo.
Home Again in SaddleBrooke
Once we got back to SaddleBrooke, Dad unloaded the trailer — and I was his best cheerleader the whole time. I supervised… encouraged… and offered moral support (which is very important, as you know).
Finally, everything was done, and we took a photo with the trailer at home.
It feels wonderful to have all our important things together here in Saddlebrooke again. Now we can relax a bit more, settle in, and enjoy the good life we’re lucky to have.
November Arrives — and So Does Thanksgiving
Here we are in November, and you know what that means… the holidays are coming! And first up is Thanksgiving — a very special day for humans and dogs.
I even spent a little time with my friend Tom Turkey recently. I took him for a ride, now that Toonces has taught me how to drive. Tom has some strong opinions about November, by the way… he doesn’t quite see Thanksgiving the same way the rest of us do!
Emma’s Thanksgiving Message 🦃❤️🐾
Oh, Thanksgiving! Just saying the word makes my tail wag. From a dog’s perspective, it’s one of the most wonderful holidays of all — a day filled with delicious smells, friendly voices, and warm hearts.
Dogs may not understand the history behind it, but we do understand gratitude. We feel it every day — for a soft bed, a gentle pat, a shared walk, or a treat given with love. On Thanksgiving, the feeling fills the house. We can sense our humans slowing down, gathering together, and remembering what matters most.
Of course, we secretly hope for a little taste of turkey (plain, please — no onions, gravy, or stuffing for us!). But mostly, we’re thankful just to be near our people — curled up under the table, watching and listening as laughter and stories flow.
If I could give one Thanksgiving wish from all of us dogs, it would be this: take a moment to look into our eyes and know that we love you completely, without words. You’re our whole world — and that’s something to be thankful for every day.
With love and a grateful heart,
Emma 🐾
📬 Got a question for me? Email me at Emmathewhitedog@gmail.com and I might answer it in a future post!
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Firefighters, Big Bertha, and Fall in the Desert
Hi friends — Emma here! 🐾
I’d love to share some of my latest adventures with you. One of them began in the middle of the night with a mysterious “chirp… chirp…” sound. Dad said, “Oops, a smoke detector battery must be low.” Luckily, it was one he could reach, so the chirping didn’t last long.
But that sound was our reminder — when one smoke detector needs a new battery, they all probably do. Most of ours are way up on the ceiling, far too high for Dad to reach safely. And between us, I really don’t think he should be climbing ladders anyway!
That’s where our wonderful Golder Ranch Fire Department came to the rescue. Did you know they’ll come to your house and change out smoke detector batteries if you supply the batteries? They sent a whole team of friendly firefighters, and I watched every move they made to be sure the job was done right.
They were so kind and professional, and it made me feel proud and safe. We’re lucky to have such dedicated people in our community who don’t just put out fires — they help keep homes like ours protected. Batteries should be replaced once each year, maybe on a schedule so you do not forget, like every New Years Day or even on your birthday, what better present is there than safety/protection.
A big thank you to all firefighters for your hard work, courage, and the many ways you help keep our neighborhoods safe. 🧯❤️🐾
Meet Big Bertha 🌵
After all the excitement with the smoke alarms, it was time for something new in the yard.
Dad decided to plant something special where a small palm tree used to be. Now we can see the mountains from our front courtyard so much better — and what better way to celebrate than with a desert beauty?
We visited a cactus nursery and found Big Bertha — a cactus that’s not all that big yet, but one day she’ll grow and bloom with large white flowers in the spring. Big Bertha is a type of night-blooming cereus, and when she flowers, it happens at night — the blooms are big, snowy white, and beautifully fragrant.
The gardeners planted Big Bertha in just the right spot. I was right there supervising, of course! I think she’s going to love it here.
Emma’s Autumn Poem 🍂🐾
We’re really into fall here in the desert now — the mornings are cooler, the breezes softer, and everything smells just a little different. I even wrote a poem about it.
Emma’s Autumn Poem
Cooler breezes touch my nose,
Summer’s heat begins to close.
Crunch of leaves beneath my paws,
Pumpkins waiting — I give paws applause! 🎃
Golden scents drift through the air,
Woodsmoke whispers everywhere.
Walks grow longer, mornings bright,
Evenings cozy, soft delight.
Humans smile, they love it too,
Fresh new trails, a sky so blue.
Sniff, explore, then cuddle near,
Fall’s the season dogs hold dear. 🍂🐾
Ask Emma 🐶✨
Question: Grooming and Brushing
Q: Dear Emma,
How often should I comb and brush my dog — and how often should I brush their teeth?
— Caring Owner in SaddleBrooke
A: Dear Caring Owner,
What a thoughtful question! Grooming isn’t just about looks — it’s about health, comfort, and bonding time. For dogs like me (a bichon-poodle mix), daily brushing or combing is best to keep tangles and mats away. For short-haired pups, a few times a week might do just fine. The key is to match the routine to your dog’s coat type — but honestly, we love the attention, so daily is a treat!
And teeth? Oh yes, dental care matters! Ideally, brushing your dog’s teeth every day is best (I know… easier said than done). But even a few times a week can help prevent tartar, gum disease, and bad breath. There are special dental chews — like my favorite Greenies (Yum Yum!) — and toys that help too.
So remember: brush the coat, brush the teeth, share the love — and enjoy all those extra snuggles!
Toothily yours,
Emma
📬 Got a question for me? Email me at Emmathewhitedog@gmail.com and I might answer it in a future post!
You can subscribe to Life With Emma in the Desert and have new posts delivered to your inbox by entering your email below and click Subscribe.
Driving Lessons with Toonces
Hi Friends — Emma here! 🐾
A while back when my human brother Rick came to town to drive Dad to a medical appointment, I started thinking: Why shouldn’t I be the one driving him? I mean, I go everywhere with Dad anyway. That’s when I remembered Toonces the Driving Cat from the old Saturday Night Live skits. If a cat can drive, surely a smart little dog like me can too!
If you’d like to meet Toonces, just touch the link below to see a video of him behind the wheel. I studied it carefully — after all, a girl needs to prepare for her first driving lesson
So one day, Toonces agreed to give me a lesson. It was quite an adventure. He meowed something about “keeping your paws at 10 and 2,” and then… off we went! I sat in the passenger seat, watching how he handled the wheel.
Later, we switched places.
Now, I don’t want to brag (well, maybe just a little), but I think dogs might be better drivers than cats. We’re loyal, focused, and not easily distracted by birds in the sky or squirrels on the sidewalk. Toonces didn’t say anything when I took over, but when we talked about my next lesson, he just said, “Don’t call me… I’ll call you.”
Hmmmmmm. I’m not sure what that means, but I have a feeling he knows I’ve got talent. 🚗🐶
REFLECTIONS ON HALLOWEEN 🎃
Halloween is an interesting time for us pups. Humans dress up in all kinds of costumes — ghosts, witches, superheroes — and they seem to love it. For us dogs, though, it’s a little more… confusing.
Some of us get dressed up too. One year I wore a sparkly pumpkin bandana. Not bad. But some of my dog friends got stuck wearing things with hats, wings, or even shoes. We try to be good sports, but honestly — many of us would rather wear nothing but our fur coats!
The doorbell rings all night, little humans in costumes shout “Trick or Treat!” and the world smells like candy (none of which we can eat). It can be a lot for a pup.
But there are parts we love: long walks in cooler air, pumpkins to sniff, crunchy leaves to romp through, and snuggling close when the night gets spooky. So if you see a pup dressed up this Halloween, give them a little extra smile. We’re trying our best to play along with your funny human traditions.
Wagging tails and happy howls,
🎃 Emma
Ask Emma
Q: Hi Emma… I get so terrified whenever thunder and lightning roll through SaddleBrooke. I shake, pant, and try to hide. Is there something my humans can do to make me more comfortable and help me tolerate storms?
— Question from Suki, your SaddleBrooke neighbor and friend
A: Oh, sweet friend — you are not alone. Many dogs (big and small) feel frightened by the rumbling skies and flashing lights of a summer storm. Thunder can sound like a giant’s footsteps, and lightning can seem scary and strange. But the good news is that your humans can help you feel safer.
Here are a few tricks they might try:
🐾 Safe Space: A cozy, quiet spot like a crate, closet, or bathroom can be a comforting retreat. Add a favorite blanket or toy to make it feel secure.
🐾 Calming Touch: Gentle petting, brushing, or just sitting nearby reminds you that you’re not alone.
🐾 Background Sounds: Soft music, a fan, or TV can help cover up the booms.
🐾 Comfort Clothing: Some dogs like snug wraps or shirts (like a “ThunderShirt”) that feel like a hug.
🐾 Vet Guidance: If storms are extra tough, humans can ask a veterinarian about natural calming aids or medications.
And here’s an extra tip for the humans: staying calm themselves helps us pups know everything is okay.
You’ve got this, Suki! With love, patience, and a safe cuddle spot, stormy nights don’t have to be so scary.
With a wag and a reassuring woof,
🐾 Emma
📬 Got a question for me? Email me at Emmathewhitedog@gmail.com and I might answer it in a future post!
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Starbucks, Moving, and Here Comes Fall
Starbucks and a Sip of Water
Hi friends — Emma here! 🐾
We recently made a stop at Starbucks! Dad got his favorite Americano, and I settled in for some serious people-watching.
I have to say, Starbucks does have excellent water — crisp, cold, and just right for a desert pup like me. They even give me my very own cup! No lattes for me, but I’m perfectly happy with my fresh water and a nice place to rest while Dad enjoys his coffee. You might notice the REI sticker on my stroller that I talked about in an earlier post.
An Adventure in Moving
Of course, life isn’t just coffee breaks and lazy mornings — sometimes there’s work to do!
Recently we had to move a bit of furniture, which meant borrowing a U-Haul trailer.
I can’t really help lift furniture — no thumbs, you know — but I supervised everything very carefully. Dad says I’m a great helper because I kept him company and made sure he didn’t work too hard.
Once we got the trailer returned, I was more than ready for a big rest. 💤 You might say I’m the expert on recovery — cuddling up next to Dad afterward is my specialty.
Changing Seasons
It’s almost October now, and I can feel changes in the air. The mornings are cooler, and the evenings arrive earlier. There’s something exciting about the first hints of fall — a mix of playtime energy and cozy snuggles.
Fall — A Desert Dog’s Perspective
Oh, fall is such an exciting time for us pups! The air feels cooler on our noses, the ground doesn’t burn our paws anymore, and the breezes carry all sorts of new smells — dry leaves, pumpkins on porches, and even the hint of fireplaces starting to crackle at night. For desert dogs like me, it’s a welcome relief after those long, hot summer days.
We also notice that our humans get a little more energy too — longer walks, more time outside, and sometimes even trips to see the changing colors in other parts of the country. Some of us might romp through piles of leaves, while others (like me!) just enjoy the crunch-crunch under our paws on morning strolls.
But fall isn’t just about fun — it’s also a season of comfort. The days are shorter, so evenings are cozy, and we dogs love curling up next to our people as the air cools down. It’s a perfect mix of play and rest.
So yes, we notice the seasons changing, and most of us dogs think fall is pretty wonderful — a chance to explore, sniff, and snuggle, all in the same day. 🍂🐾
Ask Emma
Q: Dear Emma, my mom keeps scolding me for eating the seed pods on the golf course. Will I get sick from them, or is she just over-reacting? I just love how crunchy they are!
— Sincerely, Stanley the Black Lab
A: Hi Stanley!
Oh boy, you Labs do love a good snack, don’t you? I understand the appeal — those crunchy seed pods might seem like nature’s version of a dog treat. But here’s the thing: not everything we find on the golf course is safe for us pups to munch on. Some seed pods (like mesquite or palo verde) can cause tummy troubles, and others might even be harmful if eaten in big amounts.
Your mom is right to be cautious. Golf courses also use fertilizers, herbicides, and other chemicals that could cling to grass or seed pods. Even if one bite doesn’t make you sick, it’s always better to stick to treats your humans know are safe.
My advice? Keep the crunchy pods for the squirrels and deer, and let your mom reward you with something yummy from home when you leave the pods alone. That way, you still get a tasty crunch without the worry.
Stay happy, healthy, and maybe a little less “crunchy,” my friend!
📬 Got a question for me? Email me at Emmathewhitedog@gmail.com and I might answer it in a future post!
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