Deborah Wachter, of Orange County, California, has always found that shelter dogs bring a one-of-a-kind experience to their adopted families. For her 8-year-old rescue dog Paisley, that was an introduction to the agility world and…

Hi. My name is Niko, and Mom and Dad and I lost our home. An earthquake split our house in half! I’m a miniature dachshund. I could have crawled through the tented floor inside but…

Every night Murphy watched as Flair worked feverishly, right paw clawing at the crate, drool escaping from her lips. If she’d had a brow, it would be sweating. She would not give up easily. He…

Watching cartoons can be pretty boring. All the words are short and I already know what they mean. So I often watch the news with my human mother. But the news can sound so scary…

I didn’t start writing this book until almost a decade after my dog Kaylee died from osteosarcoma. But all the while, I kept thinking, “I should write a book about my experiences with her.” At…

Barb Magera is credited as the photographer of the photos which appeared on pages 7 and 10 of the Spring 2025 issue of Ruff Drafts. We regret the omission. To see more of her images…

We spoke with Russ Swigart, winner of DWAA Special Category “National Dog Show Presented by Purina Excellence in Writing/Producing Award” with the entry, “The Legendary Boomhauer.”…

When it started to get dark outside the Dog Library, Margaret, a very curly black poodle, closed the paw print curtains. Most of the dogs went home, but a group of dogs gathered together for…

I have always been creative, and my Mom encouraged and guided my ability at a very early age. I dedicated my Award to her. She was my greatest teacher and inspiration to pursue art/writing/photography, as…

As if the dam’s retching wasn’t enough to wrestle her from peaceful slumber, a vile odor emanating from nine agitated puppies stomping their excrement like grapes in a vat irritated her nasal membranes, making her…

My grandparents came to visit our family in Hawaii where my Air Force father was stationed. While with us, Grandma asked me to write up a daily journal of their vacation for all their friends…

I primarily write, but I’m an artist and photographer as well. I think some people just feel the need to be creative.…