As we look toward the end of May here in 2026, the desert sun is warming up, and our neighborhood is getting ready for a very important long weekend. While many humans look forward to a day off, backyard barbecues, or a dip in the pool, Dad and I always like to pause and remember what this day is truly about.
Memorial Day is a sacred time to honor the brave individuals who served our country and made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedom.
Dad was telling me a bit about the history of the holiday. It originally started way back after the Civil War—originally called “Decoration Day”—when people would visit cemeteries and decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with beautiful spring flowers. By 1971, it became an official national holiday.
Now, in 2026, remembering and honoring that selflessness feels just as vital as it ever has. We owe our peaceful mornings and freedom to those who gave everything.
But as I was listening to Dad talk about this, I got to thinking with my big dog brain. Did you know that humans haven’t been walking those lines alone?
Dogs have been standing right beside them, serving as loyal partners in protection. While dogs have unofficially assisted heroes for centuries, it was during World War I that the United States military first began officially recognizing dogs as vital partners in service. By World War II, the U.S. Army established the first official K9 Corps.
Since then, brave dogs have served as sentries, scouts, trackers, and rescuers. They have gone into places where humans couldn’t go, sniffing out danger, protecting their handlers, and keeping watch while their units slept. And just like their human companions, many of these courageous four-legged heroes have given the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
Whether on two legs or four, true service comes from a place of pure devotion, loyalty, and love.
So, this Memorial Day, when you look at the flags waving in the Arizona breeze, please join Dad and me in sending out a quiet message of profound thanks, honor, and recognition to all the heroes who never made it home. We remember you, we thank you, and we will never forget your sacrifice.
Hello everyone! Can you feel it? Spring has officially moved into our desert home. The air is warm, the morning walks are getting a little earlier to beat the heat, and Dad and I have been busy bees—or should I say, busy lizards? We have so much to catch up on!
Out for Easter
Earlier in April, we were invited to a friend’s home for Easter dinner. It was a beautiful day, and I got to spend it with my pal Piper. Piper was the perfect host—very polite, very welcoming, and didn’t mind sharing the spotlight one bit.
The humans had a traditional feast with ham and all the fixings. Now, I did get a little taste of that ham, and I have to tell you a secret: it tasted just like chicken! Actually, everything I eat tastes like chicken. That might be because Dad serves me his “famous” boiled chicken every single night. He really does have a way with it, though—it’s always tender and delicious.
While humans love to see a different menu every night, us dogs are actually quite happy with a regular, healthy routine. A consistent diet is much easier on our tummies and keeps our energy levels steady for those long walks. As long as the bowl is full at 5:00 PM, I’m a happy girl! Of course, an interesting treat now and then makes any day a special day.
A New Roof
You might have noticed some extra noise coming from our place recently. It was time for a big project: a new roof! Here in Arizona, many of our homes have those pretty clay tiles, but the real magic is the black “underlayment” underneath that keeps the water out. Every few decades, that layer needs to be refreshed. In the photo below i am finalizing details with the contractor, second is the view from “crows nest”.
Screenshot
It took a week of loud banging and lots of patience, but we are all renewed now! The best part? This roof comes with a 30-year warranty. That means neither Dad nor I have to worry about it ever again. Our contractor even gave us a video from his drone. It started with a bird’s-eye view of the tiles and then went way up high—like a crow’s nest in the sky—giving us a 360-degree view of our whole neighborhood. The view is pretty good from up there!
A Very Big Cat
Speaking of views, I spotted something on our morning walk the other day that made me sit up very straight. High up in a tree limb sat a “very big kitty”—a bobcat!
I sat very carefully and watched while Dad took a photo.
In the desert, we share our space with all sorts of neighbors: coyotes, javelina, mule deer, and plenty of slithering snakes and lizards. We respect them all, but we definitely give the bobcats an extra wide berth. It’s their desert, too, after all!
Ask Emma: The Neighborhood To wrap up this month’s blog, I wanted to share a recent column I wrote. It all started when a neighbor asked for a little inspiration…
Dear Emma:
Have you and your dad done anything interesting lately? We are looking for some inspiration to keep our “paw-sitive” spirits up!
— A Fellow Neighbor
As a matter of fact, we spent a very quiet, cozy evening in the TV room recently. Dad was watching a movie called A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, which is all about a man named Mr. Rogers, the famous children’s TV personality.
While the credits were rolling, I happened to glance at a stack of mail on the coffee table and then back at the screen. I did a double-take! I barked at him, “Hey! That man on the TV has your name!” You see, most of you just know him as “Emma’s Dad,” but his mail says Mr. Rodgers. We are just one letter away from being famous because Dad has an extra “D” in his name that Fred didn’t have!
I sat there watching this man on the screen being incredibly patient and soft-spoken, and then I looked over at my dad, who was currently struggling to find the “mute” button on the remote and grumbling about the Wi-Fi. I thought, “Well, they aren’t twins, but they’re definitely on the same team!”
As I watched, I realized that Mr. Rogers had a very “paw-sitive” approach to life that us dogs have known about for years. Here is what I picked up from the “other” Mr. Rogers:
• The “Neighborhood” Spirit: He believed everyone is special just as they are. That is exactly how I feel when I’m out on my walks. I don’t care about what kind of car you drive or if you’re having a bad hair day; I just think you’re the most interesting person in the world at that moment.
• The Power of Listening: Mr. Rogers was a world-class listener. We dogs are experts at this, too. We don’t interrupt, we don’t check our phones, and we don’t judge. Sometimes, the kindest thing you can do for a neighbor is just to sit quietly and listen with your whole heart (and maybe a tilted head).
Big Feelings: He taught people that it’s okay to feel sad or overwhelmed. When I see Dad or a neighbor looking a bit down, I don’t try to “fix” it with a long speech. I just lean against their leg or offer a paw. Sometimes a steady, peaceful presence is all the “advice” someone needs.
It turns out that being a good neighbor isn’t about doing big, heroic things. It’s about the small, kind moments—the way we treat each other when we’re just passing by on the sidewalk.
P.S. from Emma: I finally figured out that extra “D” in our last name. It has to stand for Dog. While the Mr. Rogers on TV was busy being a hero to humans, my Mr. Rodgers is busy making sure my dinner is served at exactly 5:00 PM. That’s a different kind of greatness! I think Fred would have appreciated the “D”—he seemed like the kind of neighbor who always kept extra treats in his sweater pocket.
If you have a question for me, I’d love to hear it. You can email me at emmathewhitedog@gmail.com, and I just might answer it in a future blog.
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.
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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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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! To subscribe to Life With Emma in the Desert, enter your email in the box below and click subscribe so future posts arrive in your inbox.
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