Kathleen Troy's Blog
July 31, 2025
What's the best dog breed?
I love dogs.
I'm sure that's obvious though, right?
My Dylan had such the personality. I swear, he had the best commentary even if he never said a word.
Have you ever wondered what kind of dog you would be?
Loyal like a Golden Retriever, feisty like a Jack Russell, or a mysterious Husky with a flair for drama...
I found this fun quiz and thought I'd share:
👉 https://www.vam.ac.uk/mused/random/pe...
Let me know what breed the quiz says you are — I’d love to hear it!
Choosing the Right Breed for You
✅ Energy match matters – Athletic dog + couch potato owner = chaos.
✅ Size isn’t everything – Big dogs can be mellow; little ones can be high-octane.
✅ Grooming = commitment – Some pups need brushing... a lot.
✅ Choose friendly & trainable – Perfect for new dog parents.
✅ Rescue dogs are gems – Shelters are full of amazing, adoptable companions.
I'm sure that's obvious though, right?
My Dylan had such the personality. I swear, he had the best commentary even if he never said a word.
Have you ever wondered what kind of dog you would be?
Loyal like a Golden Retriever, feisty like a Jack Russell, or a mysterious Husky with a flair for drama...
I found this fun quiz and thought I'd share:
👉 https://www.vam.ac.uk/mused/random/pe...
Let me know what breed the quiz says you are — I’d love to hear it!
Choosing the Right Breed for You
✅ Energy match matters – Athletic dog + couch potato owner = chaos.
✅ Size isn’t everything – Big dogs can be mellow; little ones can be high-octane.
✅ Grooming = commitment – Some pups need brushing... a lot.
✅ Choose friendly & trainable – Perfect for new dog parents.
✅ Rescue dogs are gems – Shelters are full of amazing, adoptable companions.
January 6, 2025
Update on Book 6
It's hard to believe I'm living in a dream come true.
It's hard work but the words flow whenever I can carve out a chance to pen more words in my latest middle grade book installment.
This time, the boys are headed to Yosemite (a place I was able to visit last summer!) under the Summer Triangle constellation.
The mystery: stolen goods!
I won't give away too much more but do think the readers of all ages will have fun with this one.
The cover has just been approved and the manuscript is off to the editor.
Delight, delight, delight!
Perhaps I'l host a giveaway for this one, too.
Stay tuned, dear followers and readers💗🐾
It's hard work but the words flow whenever I can carve out a chance to pen more words in my latest middle grade book installment.
This time, the boys are headed to Yosemite (a place I was able to visit last summer!) under the Summer Triangle constellation.
The mystery: stolen goods!
I won't give away too much more but do think the readers of all ages will have fun with this one.
The cover has just been approved and the manuscript is off to the editor.
Delight, delight, delight!
Perhaps I'l host a giveaway for this one, too.
Stay tuned, dear followers and readers💗🐾
December 2, 2024
A Treat for Dog Lovers
Because the holidays are a time for stories that warm the heart, I want to share something truly special: Andy: A Dog’s Tale.
It’s an award-winning animated short film that touched me deeply—beautiful, inspiring, and full of hope. If you love dogs (or just a good cry in the best way), I think you’ll adore it.
[Watch Andy: A Dog’s Tale here: https://theandyfilm.com/]
However you’re celebrating—whether it’s with family, friends, or a quiet moment for yourself—I hope it’s filled with joy, peace, and a good book or two.
It’s an award-winning animated short film that touched me deeply—beautiful, inspiring, and full of hope. If you love dogs (or just a good cry in the best way), I think you’ll adore it.
[Watch Andy: A Dog’s Tale here: https://theandyfilm.com/]
However you’re celebrating—whether it’s with family, friends, or a quiet moment for yourself—I hope it’s filled with joy, peace, and a good book or two.
November 11, 2024
An excerpt from my latest book
An excerpt:
Dear Dylan’s Dog Squad,
I’m getting a Boxer pup in two weeks. I’ve puppy proofed my house, lined up a vet visit, have all the supplies he will need, and Puppy Class starts in three weeks. I think I’m ready, but I keep hearing people say I need to train him to be a Velcro dog. What’s that?
Thanks, Leo
Dear Leo,
The term Velcro dog can refer to a dog that is clingy, often suffering from separation anxiety. We’re offering the following explanation instead.
Velcro dog can also refer to training a dog to follow you or to stay near you. The goal is to teach the pup where it can go rather than let it wander around and get into trouble eating things and doing things it shouldn’t. This type of training is especially useful if your dog has a history of bad behavior.
To do this attach a four-foot, lightweight leash to your dog’s collar. (Anything longer and you will trip over it.) If you walk across the room, always take your dog with you. If you walk from one room to another, always take your dog with you. Be consistent.
After a few weeks keep the leash on your dog but let it drag on the ground. (Another reason for a short leash.)
When you leave the room, your dog should follow you without being told to do so. If not, take him with you until he can successfully follow you on his own.
There are many different training programs—for you and your dog. (That’s right. You are being trained too.) Always be patient and kind to your dog. Never yell at him and never use his name with a negative command. Praise and reward with yummy treats.
Good luck with your pup!
Dylan's Dog Squad
Get your copy on Amazon and Kindle: https://amzn.to/4fnlBNd
Dear Dylan’s Dog Squad,
I’m getting a Boxer pup in two weeks. I’ve puppy proofed my house, lined up a vet visit, have all the supplies he will need, and Puppy Class starts in three weeks. I think I’m ready, but I keep hearing people say I need to train him to be a Velcro dog. What’s that?
Thanks, Leo
Dear Leo,
The term Velcro dog can refer to a dog that is clingy, often suffering from separation anxiety. We’re offering the following explanation instead.
Velcro dog can also refer to training a dog to follow you or to stay near you. The goal is to teach the pup where it can go rather than let it wander around and get into trouble eating things and doing things it shouldn’t. This type of training is especially useful if your dog has a history of bad behavior.
To do this attach a four-foot, lightweight leash to your dog’s collar. (Anything longer and you will trip over it.) If you walk across the room, always take your dog with you. If you walk from one room to another, always take your dog with you. Be consistent.
After a few weeks keep the leash on your dog but let it drag on the ground. (Another reason for a short leash.)
When you leave the room, your dog should follow you without being told to do so. If not, take him with you until he can successfully follow you on his own.
There are many different training programs—for you and your dog. (That’s right. You are being trained too.) Always be patient and kind to your dog. Never yell at him and never use his name with a negative command. Praise and reward with yummy treats.
Good luck with your pup!
Dylan's Dog Squad
Get your copy on Amazon and Kindle: https://amzn.to/4fnlBNd
October 6, 2024
Fun Fall Treats for Your Pups🐾
Did Someone Say "Pumpkin?"
🎃 🐶
•🥄👅Plain Puree: Mix a spoonful into your dog’s regular food (or their Kong). It’s great for digestion and packed with fiber.
•❄️🥜Frozen Treats: Blend with plain yogurt or peanut butter (make sure it's xylitol-free), pour into ice cube trays or silicone molds, and freeze.
•🍪 Dog Biscuits: Combine with oats, and peanut butter to create a dough. Roll it out, cut into shapes, and bake.
•🍠 Sweet Potato Mash: Mix with cooked, mashed sweet potatoes - et voila! - nutritious side dish for your dog’s meal.
•☕🍦Puppuccino: Mix with a little unsweetened whipped cream for a special fall-themed treat that’s safe for your dog to enjoy in moderation.
•🍖 Bone Broth Popsicles: Combine with dog-safe bone broth, pour into molds or ice cube trays, and freeze for a savory, nutrient-rich snack.
•🍏Apple Bites: Mix with small pieces of apple (no seeds or core) for a crunchy, refreshing snack that dogs will love.
Pumpkin is a healthy, pet-safe treat! Pure pumpkin (not spiced or sweetened) can help with digestion and makes a tasty fall snack.
•🥄👅Plain Puree: Mix a spoonful into your dog’s regular food (or their Kong). It’s great for digestion and packed with fiber.
•❄️🥜Frozen Treats: Blend with plain yogurt or peanut butter (make sure it's xylitol-free), pour into ice cube trays or silicone molds, and freeze.
•🍪 Dog Biscuits: Combine with oats, and peanut butter to create a dough. Roll it out, cut into shapes, and bake.
•🍠 Sweet Potato Mash: Mix with cooked, mashed sweet potatoes - et voila! - nutritious side dish for your dog’s meal.
•☕🍦Puppuccino: Mix with a little unsweetened whipped cream for a special fall-themed treat that’s safe for your dog to enjoy in moderation.
•🍖 Bone Broth Popsicles: Combine with dog-safe bone broth, pour into molds or ice cube trays, and freeze for a savory, nutrient-rich snack.
•🍏Apple Bites: Mix with small pieces of apple (no seeds or core) for a crunchy, refreshing snack that dogs will love.
Enjoy!
August 31, 2024
Blueberry Doggie Treats🐶
The summer days always go by much too fast.
But the warm days are still here and I thought I'd share a fun way to help keep your pups cool.
So I'm sharing a recipe for blueberry pupsicles below.
If you try it out, let me know how your pup likes them.
Also, I'd also love to know:
Do you call these iced treats "popsicles," "iced lollies," or something else entirely? 😋
DIY Blueberry Doggie Pupsicle Treats🐶
• Recommended: baking sheet
• 2 cup measuring cup
• Blender or food processor
• Unsweetened blueberries (or substitute carrots or apples, etc.) 
• Plain nonfat yogurt
• Water
2. Add more yogurt and reduce the water if your dog prefers a creamier treat.
3. Pour into baking mold/ice cube tray. Leave ample room for the blueberries.
4. Add blueberries to each well until mold is almost filled. The pupsicle will expand as it freezes.
2. If you use a silicone mold place it on a baking sheet BEFORE you fill it. Otherwise, the mold will shift and spill as you put it in the freezer.
But the warm days are still here and I thought I'd share a fun way to help keep your pups cool.
So I'm sharing a recipe for blueberry pupsicles below.
If you try it out, let me know how your pup likes them.
Also, I'd also love to know:
Do you call these iced treats "popsicles," "iced lollies," or something else entirely? 😋
DIY Blueberry Doggie Pupsicle Treats🐶
You will need:
• Recommended: baking sheet
• 2 cup measuring cup
• Blender or food processor
• Unsweetened blueberries (or substitute carrots or apples, etc.) 
• Plain nonfat yogurt
• Water
Instructions:
2. Add more yogurt and reduce the water if your dog prefers a creamier treat.
3. Pour into baking mold/ice cube tray. Leave ample room for the blueberries.
4. Add blueberries to each well until mold is almost filled. The pupsicle will expand as it freezes.
Hints/Tips:
1. Clear space in your freezer for your pupsicles to set evenly.2. If you use a silicone mold place it on a baking sheet BEFORE you fill it. Otherwise, the mold will shift and spill as you put it in the freezer.
August 5, 2024
An Excerpt from My Forthcoming Book - Dear Dylan's Dog Squad
Dear Friends,
You are at the shelter and two soulful brown eyes look back at you. A whine escapes and…you are hooked. Before you adopt, think twice and please carefully consider what adoption will mean.
It’s been said that having a dog is like having a child who never grows up. Not true, you say? Think again.
What will it be like to have a pet completely dependent on you for their entire life? For some dogs, that may be twenty years.
What would happen if you moved, married, had children?
What would you do if a family member were allergic to the dog? Or they couldn’t get along with the dog? Or they lost interest in the dog?
Some dogs require dedicated exercise, frequent grooming, or medical treatment. What would happen if your financial picture changed?
No problem, you say. Great! You may be perfect dog owner if you...
can share your home with a dog that sheds, tracks in mud, never picks up his toys, howls in the middle of the night and regards everything you own as his.
think caring for a dog for the next two decades isn’t such a long time.
are thrilled when sloppy canine kisses on your face wake you up instead of an annoying alarm clock.
can spend a chunk of your disposable income on vet bills and endless pet toys.
enjoy having three thousand photos—all of your dog.
will spay or neuter your dog, knowing it is for their best interest.
will microchip your dog and ensure up-to-date contact info is on his collar and harness.
insist your devoted fur baby goes with you if you must relocate.
realize that being a dog owner is the best job you will ever have.
Dylan’s Dog Squad
You are at the shelter and two soulful brown eyes look back at you. A whine escapes and…you are hooked. Before you adopt, think twice and please carefully consider what adoption will mean.
It’s been said that having a dog is like having a child who never grows up. Not true, you say? Think again.
What will it be like to have a pet completely dependent on you for their entire life? For some dogs, that may be twenty years.
What would happen if you moved, married, had children?
What would you do if a family member were allergic to the dog? Or they couldn’t get along with the dog? Or they lost interest in the dog?
Some dogs require dedicated exercise, frequent grooming, or medical treatment. What would happen if your financial picture changed?
No problem, you say. Great! You may be perfect dog owner if you...
can share your home with a dog that sheds, tracks in mud, never picks up his toys, howls in the middle of the night and regards everything you own as his.
think caring for a dog for the next two decades isn’t such a long time.
are thrilled when sloppy canine kisses on your face wake you up instead of an annoying alarm clock.
can spend a chunk of your disposable income on vet bills and endless pet toys.
enjoy having three thousand photos—all of your dog.
will spay or neuter your dog, knowing it is for their best interest.
will microchip your dog and ensure up-to-date contact info is on his collar and harness.
insist your devoted fur baby goes with you if you must relocate.
realize that being a dog owner is the best job you will ever have.
Dylan’s Dog Squad
July 11, 2024
🐾 8 Pawsome Summer Tips Just for You
To make sure your pets stay cool, comfy, and safe during these hot months, here are our (mine and Dylan's) tips for you:
1. Keep 'em Hydrated: Fresh, cool water is a must! Add some ice cubes to their bowl for an extra refreshing treat. Your pets will love it!
2. Shady Business: Make sure there's plenty of shade for your pets to lounge in when outside. Whether it's under a tree or a cozy umbrella, they'll appreciate the break from the sun.
3. Paw Protection: Hot pavement? No thanks. Walk your pets early in the morning or late in the evening when the ground is cooler and gentler on their paws.
4. Cars are a No-Go: Even a few minutes in a hot car can be dangerous. Keep your pets safe by never leaving them unattended in your vehicle.
5. Groom for the Season: Regular grooming helps keep your pet's coat in top shape. Just be careful not to shave too close – their fur helps protect them from sunburn!
6. Cool Treats: Frozen goodies, anyone? Make some DIY pet popsicles with their favorite pet-safe ingredients for a fun, cool-down treat.
7. Easy Does It: When it comes to playtime, opt for shorter, gentler activities during the hottest parts of the day. Your pets will thank you for the extra chill time.
8. Cooling Gear: Get them some snazzy cooling mats, vests, or bandanas. These nifty items can help your pets beat the heat in style. You could even get one of our Dylan's Dog Squad bandanas 😉
Keep an eye out for any signs of overheating, like heavy panting or drooling, and move your pets to a cooler spot if needed. A little TLC goes a long way in making their summer safe and fun.
1. Keep 'em Hydrated: Fresh, cool water is a must! Add some ice cubes to their bowl for an extra refreshing treat. Your pets will love it!
2. Shady Business: Make sure there's plenty of shade for your pets to lounge in when outside. Whether it's under a tree or a cozy umbrella, they'll appreciate the break from the sun.
3. Paw Protection: Hot pavement? No thanks. Walk your pets early in the morning or late in the evening when the ground is cooler and gentler on their paws.
4. Cars are a No-Go: Even a few minutes in a hot car can be dangerous. Keep your pets safe by never leaving them unattended in your vehicle.
5. Groom for the Season: Regular grooming helps keep your pet's coat in top shape. Just be careful not to shave too close – their fur helps protect them from sunburn!
6. Cool Treats: Frozen goodies, anyone? Make some DIY pet popsicles with their favorite pet-safe ingredients for a fun, cool-down treat.
7. Easy Does It: When it comes to playtime, opt for shorter, gentler activities during the hottest parts of the day. Your pets will thank you for the extra chill time.
8. Cooling Gear: Get them some snazzy cooling mats, vests, or bandanas. These nifty items can help your pets beat the heat in style. You could even get one of our Dylan's Dog Squad bandanas 😉
Keep an eye out for any signs of overheating, like heavy panting or drooling, and move your pets to a cooler spot if needed. A little TLC goes a long way in making their summer safe and fun.
November 22, 2023
Thanksgiving Pet Safety
Thanksgiving is just around the corner so it's time to start reminding people of some safety tips to keep in mind for you dogs this holiday season!
If you decide to share some turkey, make sure it’s boneless and well-cooked. Don't offer raw or undercooked turkey, which may contain the salmonella bacteria. The left over carcass–the bones can be problematic for the digestive tract as well so make sure to keep out of your pet's reach.
Make sure you remind yourself (and your kiddos!) what your pets can and can't have off your Thanksgiving plate.
YES: carrots, corn (no cob), sweet potatoes, green beans, celery, small amount of cheese, turkey (no skin, fat, or bones)
NO: ham, chocolate, garlic, onions, raisins/grapes, mashes potatoes, stuffing, raw dough, pie filling
If needed and you can't reach a veterinary professional, you can call the ASPCA 24/7 Poison Control Hotline at 888-426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661. Be aware there are fees for the services.
If you decide to share some turkey, make sure it’s boneless and well-cooked. Don't offer raw or undercooked turkey, which may contain the salmonella bacteria. The left over carcass–the bones can be problematic for the digestive tract as well so make sure to keep out of your pet's reach.
Make sure you remind yourself (and your kiddos!) what your pets can and can't have off your Thanksgiving plate.
YES: carrots, corn (no cob), sweet potatoes, green beans, celery, small amount of cheese, turkey (no skin, fat, or bones)
NO: ham, chocolate, garlic, onions, raisins/grapes, mashes potatoes, stuffing, raw dough, pie filling
If needed and you can't reach a veterinary professional, you can call the ASPCA 24/7 Poison Control Hotline at 888-426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661. Be aware there are fees for the services.
October 30, 2023
Sweater Weather
Take advantage of the cooler weather and enjoy the days out with your furry friend. 🍁 Visit a Pumpkin Patch 🍂 Make fall-flavored dog treats 🍁 Dress up for Halloween 🍂 Take a hike 🍁 Go Apple Picking
Several of these are great ways to get your dog out and to practice socializing! Socializing your dog teaches your dog how to react to this great big world without fear or aggression!
Dogs that have not been socialized enough may be reactive around other dogs or people that they are unfamiliar with. They also may not respond well to strangers handling them such as a groomer, a veterinarian's assistant, pet sitters, or dog walkers.
So get out and enjoy some cooler weather!
Several of these are great ways to get your dog out and to practice socializing! Socializing your dog teaches your dog how to react to this great big world without fear or aggression!
Dogs that have not been socialized enough may be reactive around other dogs or people that they are unfamiliar with. They also may not respond well to strangers handling them such as a groomer, a veterinarian's assistant, pet sitters, or dog walkers.
So get out and enjoy some cooler weather!
