My final stop in the second leg of my national book tour landed me in the quaint and welcoming town of Westerly, Rhode Island. The day started off on the right paw. After my 2 hour train trip from New York to Westerly, the Amtrak staffer quickly called on the phone to the town’s local cab service. Turns out that there are two cabs in the entire town and I was lucky to be picked up in the one driven by Norman. He put my suitcases in the trunk and asked me, “Where you from?” I answered, “Lately, every where.” I piqued his curiousity. “What do you mean every where?” he asked. I explained that I’m a pet expert on a national book tour. He then replied, “Oh, You’re Arden Moore. We read about you in our newspaper. Wow. I have a dog named Diesel. She’s a lab mix, about 3 and yes, has a boy’s name.” We laughed as I informed Norman that my dog, Chipper, is a girl - named for my love of golf. We were nearing my stop when NOrman asked if I had time to make a quick detour - to his home nearby to meet his gal, Pam and their dog, Diesel. I quickly agreed and within a few minutes I was nose to nose with the very sweet Diesel. Within a few minutes, Diesel was performing tricks on cue and understanding why I am known as “treat lady” in the canine world.

Later that afternoon, I signed books and answered dog and cat questions to a host of folks stopping at The Other Tiger book store operated by Robert Utter. What a great store - and great staff. If you get a chance to make a stop in Rhode Island, check out Westerly. It is known as the Granite Stone City and has a river that serves as a border between it and Mystic, Conn. A must stop when your tummy is rumbling is the Pizza Parlor in the heart of the down town. Yes, the pizza is tasty, but the salads will treat your tastebuds.

I left Rhode Island at the (ugh) hour of 5 a.m. on Friday to head home for a few days and to be reunited with my furry fab four: Chipper, Cleo, Callie and Murphy. Can’t wait!