Category: Culture

Dr. Dog

Dogs are so smart (but then you knew that!)

The Dodo recently published a post that was so charming that it needed to be republished on LfD.

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Rescue Dog Sniffs Out Grandpa’s Kidney Failure — And Saves His Life Just In Time

“Lola was there when her family needed her most.”

By Maeve Dunigan

Published on Oct 1, 2026

Meet Lola: a loving rescue pup who knew something was wrong when it mattered most.

Back in 2025, team members at National Mill Dog Rescue saved Lola from a commercial breeding facility where she’d spent eight years confined to a small space with very little enrichment.

NATIONAL MILL DOG RESCUE

Given her difficult past, rescuers feared Lola might have a hard time adapting to rescue life. But Lola quickly proved them wrong.

“Despite everything she had experienced, Lola emerged as a happy, friendly little dog with so much love still to give,” a rescue representative told The Dodo.

A few months later, Lola met the Mullane family, and they instantly connected.

NATIONAL MILL DOG RESCUE

“From the moment they met her, Lola delighted them with her adorable little butt wiggle and radiant grin,” the representative said. “Choosing to bring her home was an easy decision for them. We were so happy to watch Lola head off to begin this next chapter of her life.”

About a year later, rescuers received an incredible update from Lola’s parents. According to a family member, Lola had been acting “funny,” lying on top of her grandpa and repeatedly nudging him, as if trying to signal that something was wrong.

Lola’s grandpa, who suffers from colon cancer, wasn’t feeling well, and he took Lola’s persistent nudges as a sign that he should go to the emergency room.

NATIONAL MILL DOG RESCUE

A few hours later, doctors confirmed that Lola’s grandpa was in kidney failure. Had he waited any longer, things could have been much worse.

“Lola may have saved his life that day,” National Mill Dog Rescue wrote in a Facebook post.

Rescuers are so proud of Lola, a dog who loves boldly, despite her years spent in solitude.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the role she has played — and continues to play — in the lives of the Mullane family,” the representative said. “They gave Lola a second chance, and in an extraordinary way, Lola was there when her family needed her most.”

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It has been said countless times before – dogs are beyond special. The bond they make with us humans is so beautiful, and this true story about Lola and the Mullane family is wonderful.

Perfect!

Picture Parade Five Hundred and Forty-Four

Just the one photograph today.

This photograph was sent to Jeannie from Trish, a friend who pre-dates me meeting Jean.

Trish believes the photograph was taken twenty years ago. Trish is standing in the middle of the picture, next to Suzanne and Jean on her right.

Memories!

A review of a danger.

George Monbiot spells out a motoring hazard.

I do not drive. I haven’t driven for quite a few years. I had a biking accident that caused the DVLC to recall my license. (I had two sub-dural bleedings that required urgent surgery)

Ouch!

Thus, ironically, I am removed from having car-driving accidents.

That leads me on to republish a recent George Monbiot article.

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Driven to the Brink

Posted on 23rd September 2026

Petromasculinity not only kills people on the road. It spills into our politics, fuelling far-right individualism.  

By George Monbiot, published in the Guardian 17th September 2026

Where is lawbreaking not just visible, but designed to be seen? Where is antisocial behaviour worn as a badge of honour? Where is pleasure gained directly from causing distress? And where is reckless endangerment often ignored by the police or treated with the mildest of punishments? The answer is on the roads.

Last month, three men in the West Midlands were convicted of street racing. Two were driving at over 80mph in a 40mph zone. The third clocked over 90mph in a 30mph zone. The West Midlands has long been blighted by organised racing, sometimes involving 200 cars or more and hundreds of spectators. The result is a long catalogue of deaths and life-changing injuries, including some caused when racers have left the road and ploughed into onlookers or pedestrians. And there are plenty more accidents where the police have little idea whether racing is to blame, for as soon as they happen, the drivers disperse.

The West Midlands is one of the few places in the UK where the police are actively trying to stop antisocial driving. An injunction bans street racing and dangerous tricks such as “drifting” (long sideways skids) and “doughnutting” (making the car spin on the spot). The local police commissioner has warned that reckless drivers “will face the full force of the law … including seizure of your vehicle and imprisonment”. But are the courts listening?

Of the three men convicted at Birmingham magistrates court, one received a suspended sentence, a £272 fine, 150 hours of community work and a two-year driving ban. Another was handed a £1,275 fine and seven penalty points: in other words, he could step out of the court and back into his car. The man who did over 90mph in a 30mph zone got a £253 fine and a 56-day driving ban. He’ll be back on the roads in November. All appear to have kept their cars.

If these men had caused the same level of endangerment by any other means, it’s hard to believe they would have got off so lightly. But in dozens of ways, driving gets special treatment.

There’s a similar racing culture in mid-Wales, where I lived until 2012. Night after night, a convoy of cars with exhausts modified to be as loud as possible would race past, at 50mph or more in a 30mph zone. They would start at around 10pm and continue some nights until 2am, going round the nearby roads in a loop. As soon as I’d got my infant daughter to sleep, they’d roar past and wake her up again.

Calls to the police were useless: they told me to take down the number plates and “report the incident”. When I did so, they explained, in effect, that I was wasting my time, as I couldn’t prove the drivers were breaking the speed limit. In fact, their advice was counterproductive: when I went outside to take the plates, the young men jeered, gave me the finger and accelerated. It seemed that shock and disgust was what they craved. And this was before TikTok, where drivers can achieve much wider notoriety.

The first young man to “do a ton” (100mph) down my high street in Wales on his motorbike became a local hero. Soon afterwards, he rode into a wall and died. Other drivers killed their passengers, hit pedestrians or forced other cars off the road. When people were killed or injured, the drivers were prosecuted and lightly punished, but there was little effort to address the underlying culture. Some men went straight back into the convoys when they regained their licences. I’m told that nothing has changed, despite the default 20mph speed limit now applied to residential areas across Wales. Every year a new cohort of young men joins the local urban racetrack.

Now I live in Devon, where there’s a different culture of antisocial driving. Here it’s mostly middle-aged men in “lifted” pickup trucks, which have been modified to be as loud and smoky as possible. Two local SUVs have been refitted to “roll coal” from twin exhaust towers mounted behind the cab, releasing a dense black cloud of soot when the driver hits the “smoke switch”. Adapting your truck for this purpose means buying a “delete kit” to bypass the vehicle’s emissions control system, retuning the engine and fitting bigger injectors. The practice emerged in the US, both as an anti-environmental protest and as a form of amusement. It is largely deployed against cyclists, pedestrians and electric vehicles. I’ve seen these two trucks doing it, blinding the drivers behind and choking everyone around. Of course it’s illegal. But it doesn’t seem to be a priority for the police in my area.

What we see here are manifestations of petro-masculinity: a violent, misogynistic, climate-denying version of manhood, expressed through an antisocial driving culture. Some of the modified trucks have decals saying “Stop the Boats” or “Save Our Children” (who are apparently being brainwashed by LGBTQ+ cultural Marxists). This is the Magafication of transport – a vehicle that carries some of the worst aspects of US culture and politics into the UK.

It’s the extreme end of a much wider trend. In the UK last year, 52% of the new cars on sale were SUVs. Not only do the ever-rising bonnets of these trucks make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians and cyclists, especially children, but higher and heavier cars are also more likely to cause deaths or serious injuries when they hit people: children under nine are three times more likely to be killed if they’re hit by an SUV than by a regular car.

And what are they for? On narrow country lanes round here, tourists in these “off-road” vehicles won’t back up if it means touching a hedge, in case the high-gloss finish on their Wankpanzer Childkiller gets scratched. In one of the poshest parts of London, the Chelsea Truck Company advertises “iconic urban 4x4s”. “Iconic” appears to mean huge. But what the hell is an “urban 4×4”? And why is it legal?

Isn’t it obvious that selfishness on the road changes us as a society? The belief that drivers should be allowed to do whatever they please, regardless of the impact on others, mounts the pavement and travels deep into our lives. If this is to be a decent, inclusive country that values human life, then the law and its enforcement should match that aspiration. But when the roads are used to amplify and celebrate a dangerous, antisocial culture, we are driven towards a very dark place.

http://www.monbiot.com

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Now this is in England but I have very little doubt that it occurs here in America. Especially since a far greater proportion of vehicles are SUV’s. Well that’s the case here in Oregon.

250 years!

A reminder of July 4th, 2026.

Heather Cox Richardson published a post on YouTube,

Despite the fact that Jeannie and I were born in London, and July, 2026 is now nearly three months ago, this video is splendid.

She introduces it as follows:

From the time of our country’s founding 250 years ago, the story of America has been one of the constant efforts of Americans—from all races, ethnicities, genders, and abilities—to make real the belief that we are all created equal and have a right to have a say in our democracy. We will be telling their stories over the next several weeks because now, as ever, “We Are America.”

Here is the video,

Looking after our pets

Another post from Penny Martin.

Penny is a generous person. I say that because she sends me on a regular basis posts that I can publish. So today’s post will be well-received by pet owners and that, potentially, is many people. When I did the research, AI responded by writing that 71 million U.S. households in America own a dog.

Thus Penny’s post is highly relevant.

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Simple Daily Wellness Tips Every Pet Owner Can Easily Follow

For busy pet owners balancing work, errands, and the steady rhythm of walks, feeding, and cleanup, personal health often slips to the bottom of the list. The challenge isn’t a lack of caring, it’s the pressure to “do wellness right” while already managing a full day and a pet’s needs. That all-or-nothing mindset can leave both body and brain running on fumes, even when life looks fine from the outside. Simple, holistic well-being strategies and realistic daily wellness routines can support energy, mood, and focus in ways that fit real pet-owner lifestyle considerations.

Build a Pet-Owner-Friendly Wellness Rhythm

This quick routine helps you care for your body and mind without competing with walks, feeding, and playtime. You’ll stack tiny actions at the same times each day so wellness feels automatic, not like another chore.

  1. Anchor a 3-minute morning stretch to your first pet task
    Start with gentle neck rolls, shoulder circles, and a slow forward fold right after you let your pet out or set down breakfast. Keep it easy and pain-free, aiming for “looser” not “sweaty.” This wakes up stiff joints and sets a calm tone before the day speeds up.
  2. Add a short walk upgrade you can repeat
    During your usual walk, choose one tiny change: walk for a few more minutes or take one extra lap around the block. Keeping the change small makes it far more likely you will stick with it, and your pet still gets their normal routine.
  3. Use a 60-second mindfulness reset at pet “pause points”
    Pick two moments you already stop, like waiting for the kettle, brushing your pet, or standing by the door before a walk. Breathe in for four counts, out for six, and relax your jaw and shoulders. This tiny pattern interrupts stress spirals without needing a quiet room or extra time.
  4. Set a realistic bedtime “shut-down” that protects sleep
    Choose a consistent lights-out window, then build a 10-minute wind-down: dim lights, silence notifications, and do one calm activity (stretch, shower, or light reading). Treat it as non-negotiable because making sleep a priority supports your mood, focus, and patience for tomorrow’s pet care.
  5. Review once a week and adjust, not restart
    On the same day each week, ask: What felt easy, what felt hard, and what can I shrink by half? Keep the parts that work and tweak one thing, like shifting your stretch to right after feeding. Small adjustments beat starting over.

Build Career Satisfaction That Supports Your Health—and Your Pet’s

When your days have a steadier rhythm, it’s easier to notice whether work is supporting your well-being or quietly draining it. Career fulfillment matters because it shapes your stress levels, energy, and sense of purpose, things that spill over into how present and patient you feel at home with your pet. If you’re feeling stuck, going back to school can be a meaningful way to strengthen your career trajectory, open new doors, and build longer-term stability that supports the life you want.

You can choose from an array of accredited online programs; for example, if you’re drawn to a behind-the-scenes role in care, a health administration master’s can help you move toward healthcare administration. Whatever path you choose, online programs are ideal for working professionals because they let you keep earning and keep up with your current responsibilities.

Daily Wellness Habits That Fit Pet-Owner Life

When you repeat a few basics, wellness stops feeling like another task and starts feeling automatic. These habits build a simple baseline you can stick with even on busy, pet-centered days.

Water Check-In

  • What it is: Use water consumption as a simple daily checklist item.
  • How often: Daily
  • Why it helps: Steadier hydration supports energy, digestion, and clearer hunger cues.

Brush and Floss Pairing

  • What it is: Brush for two minutes, then floss before you start evening pet routines.
  • How often: Daily
  • Why it helps: It reduces plaque buildup and keeps gums less irritated.

Dental Calendar Anchor

  • What it is: Put your next dental cleaning on the calendar when you book it.
  • How often: Every 6 months
  • Why it helps: It prevents small issues from becoming painful, expensive surprises.

Sunscreen Before the Leash

  • What it is: Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ to face, ears, neck, and hands.
  • How often: Daily, before outdoor time
  • Why it helps: It protects skin from UV damage during walks and yard breaks.

Moisturize After Washing

  • What it is: Apply moisturizer within two minutes of bathing or face washing.
  • How often: Daily
  • Why it helps: It seals in moisture and supports your skin barrier.

Wellness With Pets: Common Questions Answered

Q: What if my pet wakes me up and I miss sleep again?
A: Keep your goal tiny: one steady habit the next morning, like a full glass of water or sunscreen before the first outing. If nights are chaotic, try a short wind-down cue you can repeat even at 2 a.m., like two slow breaths while your pet settles. Consistency beats perfection when sleep is choppy.

Q: How can I calm a stress spike without losing my whole day?
A: Use your pet as a reset, not a distraction. Many pet parents rely on their pet for stress relief, so take 60 seconds to pet them slowly and unclench your jaw. Then do one next right thing, like brushing your teeth or refilling your water.

Q: When I’m rushed, what’s the minimum routine that still counts?
A: Pick a two-minute combo: drink water while your pet eats, then wash your face and moisturize. Tie it to something that already happens every day, like the first leash grab or filling the bowl. If you do only that, you still reinforce the habit loop.

Q: How do I stop being inconsistent with self-care?
A: Make it automatic by choosing one anchor time and one location, like floss at the sink before evening feeding. Lower friction by keeping essentials where you use them, such as sunscreen by the door. Track streaks weekly, not daily, so one off day does not derail you.

Q: Can I fit planning in when pet care takes over my evenings?
A: Yes, keep it to 90 seconds. Plan out the next day by writing down three must-dos, then stop. Waking up with a simple plan makes follow-through easier, even with surprise messes.

Start One Small Pet-and-You Routine for Lasting Wellness

It’s easy for pet care to crowd out personal care, especially when sleep slips, stress flares, and the day fills up fast. The steady way forward is the mindset of small, repeatable routines, sustainable self-care habits that support both of you and build long-term health maintenance without relying on perfect days. Over time, that approach brings more motivation for wellness routines, fewer restarts, and a calmer path toward achieving balanced well-being. Small daily habits keep both ends of the leash healthy.

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Like all things that are important, developing a routine is crucial. Making it a habit is vital.

Penny has offered a grand analysis of what one needs to do to keep your pets healthy and happy.

Thank you, Penny.

The excellent book by Jared Huffman

It is called NO PROPHETS.

Over last weekend I finished reading Jared Huffman’s book. To say is was good would be an understatement. It was excellent.

I will print the last paragraph of the last chapter.

CONCLUSION

We don’t need to agree on everything, but right now we must come together as fellow Americans who agree on the most important thing: Our beleaguered democracy remains the best system of government the world has ever seen, and it belongs to all of us. Let us be worthy of it by confronting the myths, defending the facts, and honouring the Enlightenment inheritance that made pluralistic democracy possible. And as we do, let us remember Thomas Paine’s words that echo across the centuries: “The mind once enlightened cannot again become dark.” (My emboldening.)

Here, here!

Being Happy

It is such a straightforward intention, but ….

……. it is so often hijacked by ‘life’.

A search found many articles but I shall just publish two.

The first is from a Google search. (An AI answer.)

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Finding happiness within yourself means shifting your focus from external things to your own inner peace and state of mind.

Practice Mindfulness and Gratitude

  • Be present: Notice the current moment instead of rushing through your day.
  • Count your blessings: Write down three things you are thankful for each day.
  • Savor good moments: Pause and absorb positive feelings when good things happen, even small ones.

Let Go of Mental Barriers

  • Stop seeking approval: Realize that your worth does not depend on what others think.
  • Observe your thoughts: Watch your negative thoughts pass by without judging or believing them.
  • Release the past: Forgive yourself and others for past mistakes instead of holding onto anger.

Care for Your Mind and Body

  • Get enough rest: Prioritize good sleep so your body can recharge.
  • Stay active: Move your body regularly to release natural mood-boosting chemicals.
  • Spend time in nature: Walk outside to calm your mind and feel grounded.

Connect With Yourself

  • Explore hobbies: Do things purely because you enjoy them, like reading, drawing, or listening to music.
  • Spend time alone: Learn what you like and get comfortable in your own company.
  • Help others: Perform small, random acts of kindness to bring joy to both yourself and those around you.

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The second one is from Gretchen Rubin.

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My current writing project is a book that will be called Better Than Before, about the most fascinating subject ever, the subject of habits. How do we make and break habits—really?

It was my interest in happiness that led me to the subject of habits, and of course, the study of habits is really the study of happiness. Habits are the invisible architecture of everyday life, and a significant element of happiness. If we have habits that work for us, we’re much more likely to be happy, healthy, productive, and creative. Or not.

When I talk to people about their happiness challenges, they often point to hurdles related to a habit they want to make or break.

Last week, I posted about the “Big Five,” the areas into which most people’s desired habits fall.

I asked for reader advice about two questions: had I overlooked any areas, and was there a better name than “Big Five”?

Thank you, readers! I got very helpful answers to both questions.

First: yes, indeed, I’d missed some important areas. Now I have seven areas.

Second: given the new number, a reader had a great idea for a snappy name: the Essential Seven.

Voila! The Essential Seven include…

1. Eat and drink more healthfully (give up sugar, eat more vegetables, drink less alcohol)

2. Exercise regularly

3. Save and spend wisely (save regularly, pay down debt, donate to worthy causes, make purchases that contribute to happiness or habits, pay taxes, stay current with expense reports)

4. Rest, relax, and enjoy (pursue a hobby instead of cruising the internet, enjoy the moment, stop checking email, get enough sleep, spend less time in the car, take time for myself)

5. Stop procrastinating, make consistent progress (practice an instrument, set aside two hours daily for uninterrupted work, learn a language, maintain a blog, keep a gratitude journal)

6. Simplify, clear, and organize (make the bed every day, file regularly, put keys away in the same place, recycle, give away unused clothing)

7. Engage more deeply—with other people, with God, with yourself, with the world (call family members, read the Bible every day, volunteer, spend time with friends, observe the Sabbath, spend time alone in nature)

Of course, the same habit might satisfy different needs for different people. For one person, yoga might be a form of exercise (#2), for someone else, a way to find mental rest (#4); for someone else, a spiritual practice (#7). And people value different habits. For one person, organized files might be a crucial tool for creativity; another person finds inspiration in random juxtapositions.

The argument I’ll make in Better Than Before is that when we change our habits, we change our lives. We can use decision-making to choose the habits we want to form, use willpower to get the habit started, then—and this is the best part—we can allow the extraordinary power of habit to take over. At that point, we’re free from the need to decide and the need to use willpower. We take our hands off the wheel of decision, and our foot off the gas of willpower, and rely on the cruise-control of habits. Mindfully, then mindlessly.

Before and after! It’s what we all crave.

So readers, what do you think of the Essential Seven—the name and the concepts themselves? I very much appreciate all the thoughtful comments that people posted. Very, very helpful.

I must say, it pleases me to have seven. I hate to quote Voldemort, but he was right when he observed, in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, “Isn’t seven the most powerfully magic number?”

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So there we are.

Always room for improvement, no matter the age or the circumstances.