Susan Hartzler is the author of The Peace Puppy, our book review this week. We had the honor of interviewing her alongside reviewing this book. If you have not already purchased a copy of the Peace Puppy, we hope you’ll support this author by doing so.
Since this is a chihuahua blog, I’d love to start off with the chihuahua mix you grew up with. Could you tell us a bit more about her?
A: Siesta was my first true love. She came into my life when I was only five, a “purebred” Chihuahua, though she resembled more of a scrappy cross between a rat and an opossum. To me, she was nothing short of beautiful.
We slept back-to-back every night, her warmth comforting me and her soft snores lulling me to sleep. It was Dad who came up with her unique name (saying it was the only Spanish word he knew), and while she was meant to be the family dog, everyone knew Siesta was mine.
She had her own unique way of living too. Siesta never touched dog food once—she didn’t have to. Every evening, she’d sit under the dinner table, waiting patiently for me to slip her scraps, much to Dad’s frustration. Mom wasn’t much better, feeding her baloney and donuts. Siesta had the diet of a rebel, but she thrived, living to the ripe old age of twenty.
I’ll never forget the day the vet told my mom it was time to put Siesta down. Instead of following his advice, Mom brought her home to “think it over.” After handing Siesta a donut, Mom watched as the scruffy little dog devoured it and thought, I can’t put this dog down—she just ate an entire donut! Siesta went on to live six more years, proving that a little love—and maybe some donuts—can go a long way.
Do you have any guesses what the secret was your mom was trying to share with you? Or is it forever a mystery?
A: I never did find out what her secret was. I tried asking my uncle, her brother, but he had no idea. I even found her best friend, Frances, but she didn’t know either.
Caregiving is an enormous responsibility. Do you have any tips for those struggling with their own caregiving burden?
A: My first piece of advice is to get a dog. Taking your dog for a walk can be a great way to clear your head during tough times. Plus, dogs inherently have healing qualities, including providing unconditional love, reducing stress through companionship, encouraging physical activity, and offering emotional support through their intuitive and empathetic nature.
If having a dog isn’t an option, find an activity just for yourself—whether it’s reading, gardening, or yoga. It’s important to prioritize self-care. Finally, get help for yourself. Caretaking can be grueling, especially when it’s a family member. Fortunately, there are many resources available now that offer support. While I struggled to find help back in 2000, I found numerous options online when writing this book. Just Google the word Caretaking. Even actor Bradly Cooper is doing a documentary on the subject set to air in 2025.
Judging by some of the events in the book, it’s been a few years since this book took place. How has your healing journey progressed?
A: I find healing through my writing. This is my second memoir. My first is called “I’m Not Single, I Have a Dog: Dating Tales From The Bark Side.” Dogs help a lot. So do naps. But life continues to throw curve balls at me. I wish I could say I’ve healed enough to handle the stresses of getting older myself but I still struggle.
How did you manage a Puli’s grooming needs, which are significant, while all these events were taking place?
A: Baldwin sported his own unique style. He didn’t wear the usual dreads. I tried them, but the dreads seemed to pull his skin, and they didn’t smell good, either. Instead, I had him shaved so he looked sort of like a larger black Bichon, and I painted peace signs on him. When he became the #1 Puli in Agility in the US, the Puli Club of America omitted a picture of my boy in the announcement. But I loved the way he looked!
I’d love to learn more about your current dogs, Seven and Paige Turner.
A: Seven and Paige Turner are a certified Therapy Dog team, bringing smiles to high school students, including those with special needs. Seven and Paige Turner also shine as professional actors and models, appearing on the cover of the 2025 Australian Shepherd Calendar by Brown Trout.
Seven is no ordinary dog; the 10-year-old Australian Shepherd is a true standout in every way. I rescued him at ten months old from the competitive world of dog conformation. Seven spent his first month looking and acting anxious and preferring the outdoors. However, with patience and love, he quickly adapted and now enjoys both indoor comforts and outdoor adventures. His magnetic charm often leads to numerous stops wherever he goes, as admirers can’t resist complimenting him on his beauty. When Seven appeared on a television show hosted by Mike Tyson, the former boxer remarked that the blue merle Australian Shepherd was the most beautiful dog he’d ever seen—a sentiment echoed by many.
Paige Turner is a stunning 5-year-old blue merle Australian Shepherd with heterochromia iridis (one blue eye and the other brown) and a personality that captivates everyone she meets. Her intelligence shines through in every interaction, whether charming strangers with her playful antics or her unwavering loyalty to her family, a trait that fosters a deep sense of connection. As an author, her name reflects my career, along with the spirited nature and excitement she brings to every moment. PT truly lives up to her name, filling each day with a thrilling sense of adventure.
Together, we’re on a mission to bring joy to all we encounter.
Anything you’d like to share about yourself, your blog, or upcoming events?
A: I am currently writing my third book for McFarland Publishing about the world of Therapy Dogs, something I am very passionate about. I plan to take readers on a journey of discovery, celebrating the remarkable bond between humans and dogs and the profound difference therapy dog teams can make in the lives of those they touch. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll delve deep into the world of therapy dogs, exploring how to get certified, sharing touching real-life stories of therapy dog teams from across the country (including my own stories), and offering practical training tips to help create unforgettable moments during visits.
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[…] parents are a part of our circle of life. In The Peace Puppy, Susan Hartzler returns home after the death of her beloved mother to help take care of her father. Her memoir […]