Palm Springs is a magical spot surrounded by mountains that sport various looks, depending on the time of day and the attitude of the sun and the sky. It is also a place that I have been fortunate to cultivate a lot of friendships and professional contacts — all sharing one commonality: a love of pets. That’s why I was happy that one of my national book tour stops landed me in Palm Springs, specifically, inside the very cool Bones ‘N Scones store operated by Kathy Hart. This is heaven on earth for all dogs - and other critters. My two dogs, Chipper and Cleo love to sniff up and down the aisles each time we visit. I always find top quality treats and chow for them because Kathy is fussy about what she carries in her store.

During my book signing, I met Dr. Mark Brooks, the head master at Pilgrim School, a private K-12 school in LA. Small world. He loved my books and extended an invitation for me to give a couple of pet talks for his students. Hey, any time I have the chance to edu-tain a new generation on the power — and benefits — pets bring to us two-leggers, I’m game. Thanks to Kathy, too, for hosting my book signing. I encourage each and every one of you who ventures into Palm Springs to make a stop at Bones ‘n Scones on Sunny Dunes — you and your favorite tail-wagger will leave feeling grrr-eat!!!