Weekly Round Up
The Pack Report: Friendly Faces & Weekly Vibes
Weekly Highlights:
Incas was back for more this week! I got to visit him twice a day at the local assisted living community where he lives with his mom. He introduced me to so many of his friends there - I got to know many of the other residents as well as many of the staff members. But his favorite stop every evening was the Concierge desk, where his best friend had a treat on hand and snuggles to offer him.
We visited Poppy in Potomac for several walks. She gave us an in-depth tour of her neighborhood, with special care to explore the creek winding through a patch of woods around the corner from her house.
Louie met a new friend in his apartment building! A Central Asian Shephard, Bear towered over him but that didn't stop the two from becoming fast friends.
Business Updates:
The Zoomies website got a full overhaul this week, phasing out the web-building software it had initially been built on in favor of the more aesthetically pleasing custom coded site you see now. Many of the blog posts are still being transferred, so don't be alarmed if you can't find a previous post. And if you spot any bugs or errors, or have any suggestions to improve or add content, drop us an email!
Sniffs & News: This Week's Top Stories
Collegiate Pups
Several colleges have officially added "puppy training" as an elective or volunteer-based credit for students this semester to help socialize service-dogs-in-training while reducing student stress, partnering with organizations like Canine Companions and Guiding Eyes for the Blind. Students can apply to be "Puppy Raisers" or "Puppy Sitters." The dogs live in the dorms or student apartments and attend lectures, dining hall meals, and sporting events. This extreme socialization is designed to expose the puppies to unpredictable environments, which significantly increases their chances of passing advanced training to become full-fledged service animals for veterans or people with disabilities.
Legislative Win Against Puppy Mills
On March 13, 2026, animal advocates celebrated a huge victory as the U.S. House Agriculture Committee moved forward with the latest Farm Bill. Crucially, a provision that would have protected large-scale commercial "puppy mills" from certain state regulations was removed. This is a major step toward holding states accountable to maintain higher standards of care for breeding dogs and their litters.
The Iditarod Race
The world’s most famous sled dog race, the Iditarod, was in full swing this week. While the race is grueling, it also showcases the incredible bond between mushers and their teams. One standout story from the trail featured musher Mille Porsild and her dog Charley. Though the race brings its own set of challenges, Porsild shared stories of Charley’s "adamant, over-the-top attitude" and drive, reminding fans of the sheer joy these working breeds find in having a job to do.
Coming Up at Zoomies
Rare Breed of the Week
This week we introduced you the sheep-looking Bedlington Terrier. Stay tuned for this week's rare breed - a real Athlete!
Service Reminder
Spring is here (at least, part of the week it is). Don't forget to schedule your dog's next grooming appointment and get that shaggy winter look cleaned up for the warmer weather.