Praise for PETS

To the Editor:

I really enjoyed the article in the August Senior News regarding the “PETS Program [Ashley Gouthier, “PETS Keeps Seniors and Their Beloved Pets Together,” page 11]. It really touched me.

I know how much my dog has helped me with my grief since my wife of 27 years passed away, so I want to donate to the Program. I hope this helps.

Scott R. Baker, McKinleyville

Editor’s Note: The PETS (Paws, Ears, Tails & Smiles) Program is a donor-based effort to help eligible seniors care for their pets with free pet food, veterinary care and grooming, among other services.

For info, call 707-443-9747.

EXTRA!

Lucy and the Movable Rock

By Rich Jordan

September 4, 2026

Lucy was a Cornish game hen, and she was brilliant. She came into my family's life in 1982, joining a long line of other non-traditional pets such as hamsters, guinea pigs, assorted birds, and even a tarantula. We always had a cat or three around, and a dog from time to time. I unabashedly admit that I was mo...

EXTRA!

Follow the Dog

By Michele Francesconi

August 28, 2026

The game had no rules except one: follow Duke wherever he led. Each day with Duke, my half-collie and half-German shepherd companion, was a celebration as he led me across the mountain to hidden creeks where I drank icy water with my hands. One morning, the sky turned white — no trail, no tree line, no sense ...

News, September 2026 - Artificial Intelligence

‘Saving Radiance’ or ‘Unbearable Disturbance’?

By Ted Pease

August 26, 2026

Science fiction, Hollywood and pop culture have long speculated — sometimes with fright, sometimes with eager anticipation — on the impacts of technology on human life. Back in 1936, Charlie Chaplin’s “little tramp” viewed industrialization as the dehumanization of society, with humans reduced to cogs on conv...

Columnists, Jennifer Heidmann's Column

ASK THE DOCTOR: Dr. Google

BY JENNIFER HEIDMANN, M.D.

August 26, 2026

If you have taken part in medical care in the last year, it is likely you have encountered artificial intelligence (AI). It is increasingly used to write medical provider notes, sometimes by directly listening in on visits. It is also widely available to lay people and doctors alike to answer questions about ...