My first full day in Minnesota started off on the “right paw” with an appearance on NBC-TV’s “Showcase Minnesota” show with the very fun, amicable host, Rob Hudson. His positive energy and goofy nature is much aligned with mine, which explains why we slapped “Paws Up” greetings and unleashed a fun pet jingle on air. My appearance was sandwiched between some guy dressed in a pink bunny suit and a chef preparing must-have edibles. Never did find out the reason for the bunny guy. He hopped out of the studio before I could find out.

Each morning, Showcase Minnesota delivers a wide assortment of guests - ranging from the local wonders to the famous celebs. I guess pet writers on national book tours fall somewhere in between.

The rest of the day, I spent catching up with a dear friend, Dr. Dale Anderson. He is a first-rate speaker, doctor and author. He definitely embodies the notion that laughter is good medicine. Now a young 75, he informed me that he is “in the fourth quarter of life hoping for overtime and the chance to be the opening act on stage at the Century Theater.” I invite you to discover more gems about this good doc by visiting his website: www.acthappy.com Warning: prepare your belly for plenty of guffaws!