Check out Last Dog on the Hill: The Extraordinary Life of Lou, because everybody knows that rescued dogs are special. Did you know that I came from G.R.I.N. (Golden Retrievers in Need Rescue Service)?

Looking for some detective fiction? I like the "Chet and Bernie" series by Spencer Quinn (Dog On It, Thereby Hangs a Tail), or you could try Martha Grimes' latest, The Black Cat. I'm reserving judgment, but the two cats who share my house are excited about it.

Louise was telling me about Last Call: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition. She liked it, and I'm optimistic that this clear-eyed look at the Eighteenth Amendment will lead folks to reconsider banning the canine population from public establishments. I could have so much fun in the supermarket if they'd only let me in!

We've also got the Trail Guide to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. There are lots of places to take a cooling stroll beneath the trees or an arduous hike - they've got trails for all abilities and interests. And leashed dogs are always welcome in the park!

Enjoy the Dog Days of Summer! Woof!

The Hudson Farmers Market is now open! Come downtown on a Saturday morning (9 AM-12:30), browse the market, then stop at The Learned Owl for some ideas on how to use that great stuff you just bought.