Im back from BlogPaws, Dogsters! It was an info-packed event with lots of enthusiastic pet bloggers and some really terrific presentations. Some personal highlights from the conference:

Getting to see a smart, devoted, gorgeous, calm service dog in action on the main stage, and learning about how much goes into making a Canine Companions for Independence service dog.

Hearing a very moving and inspirational talk by animal welfare pioneer Mike Arms, president of the Helen Woodward Animal Center. (There was not a dry eye in the house, unless you count a couple of dogs, who were thinking about all the treats in their goody bags.)

Meeting lots of dedicated bloggers, and finally getting to meet one of my favorite dog bloggers, Neil Brogan, of Life With Dogs. Also fun: Spending a bit of time with some San Francisco area dog-world colleagues, including wonderful pianist and calming dog musician Lisa Spector, veterinarian and author Nancy Kay, and Sharon Castellanos, of Grouchy Puppy. (By coincidence, Sharon and I met many moons ago when we were each working at the same non-profit for our first jobs in San Francisco. And Lisa and I had been on the same flight from San Francisco to Denver, one row apart, and had no idea until after the flight.)

Being part of a crew of 10 whose attendance was generously sponsored by Pedigree. FYI, Pedigree is offering anyone with a blog a fantastic chance to help a shelter dog: Through Sept. 19, for every blog that posts about Pedigree’s Adoption Drive, Pedigree will donate a 20-pound bag of its new Healthy Longevity Food for Dogs to shelters nationwide. Ill send you over to my blog buddys post at Life With Dogs for more details. (Wow, by writing that, I just donated a 20-pound bag of food!)

Seeing a bit of Denver with Dogsters awesome content manager, Janine Kahn, who gave a winning presentation on social media the first morning of the conference.

Coming up with some ideas for future blogs, and with some great contacts for future contest prizes.

Hyatt room service at midnight, when I was too tired to deny the urge for molten chocolate cake with fresh strawberries and ice cream. I shall never forget eating that delectable treat while watching bad TV on a most comfy king bed.

Yes, Jake missed me, and the humans in my family did, too. But Jake forgave me for my absence once I gave him the 16-squeaky alligator toy Kyjen gave to all BlogPaws attendees. He took out any hard feelings on the poor gator, who at the moment has only one barely functional squeaky left.