The Woof of Love

Anyone who’s ever loved a dog knows that their looks can speak volumes. To gaze into the eyes of a cherished pup can sometimes feel like staring into the sweetest soul in the universe. That’s why our February issue is one big valentine, celebrating the love we share with our best pals. (To get an “actual” Valentine in the mail from us, see the PS below!) 

Dogs who’ve crossed the rainbow bridge never leave our hearts, but at times it seems as if they’re paving the way for the next one to tumble in. It’s a poignant experience that Bay Woof’s own S. Emerson Moffat tenderly recounts in her Love Letter to an Old and New Dog (cue the tissues).

And speaking of old friends, it’s unlikely there’s been a greater friend to senior dogs than Muttville’s founder, Sherri Franklin. Read Dr. Ken’s profile of this giant of the local animal rescue community as she retires from decades of groundbreaking work finding forever homes for aging pups in need. 

Of course, it takes true devotion to spend countless volunteer hours working to preserve off-leash recreation in the Bay Area, as the dedicated supporters at Point Isabel Dog Owners (PIDO) will tell you. Now you can sign up for Off-leash Skills 101, PIDO’s free training clinics at East Bay’s Point Isabel - and why it’s important that you do.

There’s loads more to love in the February issue, including all our regular columns: Nose for News, Ask Dr. Dog, Shelter Zone, Good Dog!, Monthly Woof, Commission Tails, Mr. Smarty Pants Knows, and Red and Howling.  So grab your favorite reading device, find a comfy seat next to your best pal, and get ready to surround yourself with love.

Sending valentines your way,

– Rocket
Publisher, Bay Woof

PS: Thanks to our friend Amy Luwis, the creator of Red and Howling, we’re giving away TWO of her mini calendars!  Drop us an email with the subject line CALENDAR GIVEAWAY and the first two responders will each receive a free 2026 calendar as our Valentine to YOU.  UPDATE: They went quickly on launch day! Thanks to all our readers and especially to AMY LUWIS for sharing her big heart with all of us.