What’s the best way to spend an afternoon? Why, playing with dogs of course!

Yesterday I had the privilege of attending the Grand Opening celebration for The Canine Connection in Fayetteville, Arkansas. I’d donated a copy of my latest release, Deadly Ties (set in a dog kennel, so a perfect match), and was on hand to watch the excitement.

If you’re in that part of the world and looking for a place to board, groom, or train your dog, be sure to check them out. I loved the personal attention that both dogs and owners received. And even if, like me, you arrive without a dog you’ll still enjoy VIP treatment and a personal tour of the facilities. Even though it was raining when I arrived, I saw plenty of activity because of the large indoor arenas.  The owner, Valerie Murphy, knows just how to make the kennel experience a happy one for everyone involved.  Whether your beloved dog is a pedigreed champion or the All-American variety kind of dog, Val and her team will treat you like royalty.

In addition to clean and spacious indoor arenas, there’s also a separate grooming area, ample room for boarders, and separate outdoor play areas for small and large dogs. If you’re interested in obedience or agility work, this is the place of you. I had the pleasure of watching Jack (a handsome Australian Shepard owned and trained by Diana Nagel) demonstrate a variety of agility exercises. It was very impressive, and I swear he was laughing (or at least barking) with joy as he went around the circuit.

My sincere thanks to Valerie and Diana for a lovely afternoon!