Welcome to Bay Woof, February 2023

My Furry Valentine!

The truth I do not stretch or shove
When I state that the dog is full of love.
I’ve also found, by actual test,
A wet dog is the lovingest.
– “The Dog” by Ogden Nash (1902-1971)

February is the month of love, full of hearts and flowers - and yes, the occasional wet dog. In our Valentine’s issue, Bay Woof writers open up with tales of devotion to our favorite furry companions, along with practical advice on how to live with them. 

Let’s start with this month’s features. Trainer Erika Slovikoski discusses the importance of loving communication with your dog - and why she doesn’t love those new push-button “talk” toys. Brigid Wasson provides the lowdown on microchips, including how the chip biz got so dang complicated, but why chipping dogs is still an essential act of love for them and for ourselves. And the folks at CARDA - the California Rescue Dog Association - share a harrowing story of a recent rescue search, definitely a labor of love for all involved. 

There’s much more to love in our February columns. From trainer Sara Scott’s remembrance of her first “heart dog” in Good Dog! to the Monthly Woof’s take on reframing training challenges with love, to Shelter Zone and the latest from ARF, Bay Woof’s February issue is a virtual box of (non)chocolates for you and your best pal. Of course, the usual suspects - Nose for News, Mr. Smarty Pants, and Red and Howling - are there to add a little whimsy to your day. And, on a more somber note, this month’s Ask Dr. Dog column provides a timely reminder to show love to veterinarians amid a disturbing uptick in veterinary suicide rates.  

In fact, while you’re at it, why not resolve to show more love to everyone around you today and every day? After all, dogs do it all the time without a second thought. So let’s follow their lead and make February a true month of love for our whole crazy world. 

Hearts and hugs from all of us at Bay Woof,

M Rocket
Publisher