Packing the Car, Chasing Adventure, and Protecting Your Dog's Health
- Jul 15
- 4 min read
Issue No. 11 • July 12, 2026
A NEWSLETTER. ABOUT DOGS. OBVIOUSLY.
HOLY SMOKES
Welp ... this should be interesting.
By the time you're reading this, I'll be deep into preparing for our first road trip with two large dogs. My dining room is serving as the staging area and the clutter is really giving my AuADHD a run for its money.
We've traveled with dogs before. Beezy was a seasoned veteran and even spent time camping. But neither member of our current pack has traveled before. Pike? He's a gentleman. A scholar. A Canine Good Citizen. He should be fine.
Gus, however ...
Gus believes every waking moment is an opportunity to investigate absolutely everything — especially wildlife — and enthusiastically insert himself into situations that don't involve him.
Together, they have the potential to turn a simple, quiet getaway into a documentary narrated by David Attenborough.
"Here we observe two canines as they attempt to redecorate an Airbnb while their human quietly questions every life decision that led to this moment."
We're packing the treats. We're packing the toys. We're drafting approximately 47 backup plans.
What could possibly go wrong?
(Please don't answer that.)
SHELTER DOG SPAWTLIGHT
Meet Lucy Muskingum County K-9 Adoption Center | Zanesville, OH
Some dogs just have a face that stops you in your tracks. Or ears, as the case may be.
For me, that was Lucy.
She's a sweet senior with a frosty face currently waiting for her forever family through the Muskingum County K-9 Adoption Center, and I have a feeling someone is going to fall in love with her the same way I did.
If you've been thinking about adding a four-legged family member — or know someone who is — take a few minutes to read her story. Shelter dogs have an incredible way of choosing exactly the right people.
Maybe Lucy is waiting for hers.
Can't adopt? Share this. Tag someone. Every pair of eyes on Lucy gets her one step closer to home.
FRESH FETCH
Could Your Dog Catch Aspergillosis? Part 3 in our fungal disease series
When people think about dangerous fungal diseases, they usually think of Blastomycosis or Histoplasmosis. But there's another one that deserves a spot on every dog owner's radar.
Aspergillosis is uncommon, but when it strikes, it can be devastating —especially for certain breeds. Knowing the signs and understanding when to seek veterinary care can make all the difference.
Read the latest post to learn which dogs are most at risk, what symptoms to watch for, and how this fungal infection is diagnosed and treated.
And if you're just joining the series, I've linked to Parts 1 and 2 at the top of the post, and created a handy comparison chart that makes it easy to compare all three diseases at a glance.
3 THINGS
Since we're about to hit the road with Pike and Gus, I figured I'd share a few travel tips that are just as much a reminder for me as they are for you.
Update those ID tags.
Make sure your phone number is current before you leave home. It's a simple thing that can make all the difference if your dog slips away in an unfamiliar place.
Pack a copy of your dog's vaccination records.
Whether you're staying at a hotel, campground, or visiting family, having those records handy can save a lot of stress if you need emergency veterinary care.
Freeze a stuffed Kong the night before.
A frozen treat can keep an excited dog happily occupied while you check into your hotel, unpack the car, or simply enjoy five consecutive minutes without someone enthusiastically "helping."
THE FEED
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
What’s Breed Got to Do With It? — The Anatolian Shepherd
These ancient livestock guardians are fiercely loyal, incredibly independent, and were bred to think for themselves. They're magnificent dogs—but definitely not the right fit for every household.
If you've ever wondered what it's really like to live with one, this week's feature breaks down the history, personality, exercise needs, and the realities of sharing your home with this remarkable breed.
Around My Barking Life
Module 1 of the Junior Dog Guardians™ program is officially in beta testing mode!
The program's goal is simple: help kids become safer, more confident, and more compassionate around dogs while teaching responsible pet ownership in a fun, engaging — and FREE — way.
It's a big project, but one I truly believe can make a difference for both children and dogs.
More updates are coming soon!
Until next week.
Give your dog an extra belly rub, support your local shelter if you're able to. We get one shot at life. Make it count. Be nice to everyone and everything.
WOOF!
Kim, Pike, and Gus
You're getting Bark Bits because you're a dog person with excellent taste.
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