Author, Blogger, and Advocate for the Human-Animal Bond

Award Winning Writer

Published Author

Dog Lover

The Peace Puppy

A Memoir of Caregiving and Canine Solace

I invite you to step into the heartwarming world of “The Peace Puppy: A Memoir of Caregiving and Canine Solace,” where the extraordinary journey of caregiving meets the unwavering companionship of man’s (or woman’s) best friend. Follow my journey through three intense years that transformed my life as I dedicated myself to caring for my father, who suffered from Parkinson’s Disease.

This book is a personal roadmap for those grappling with the multifaceted decisions that caregiving throws their way.

About the author

Susan Hartzler is an accomplished author, award-winning writer, seasoned blogger, and savvy Public Relations Consultant. However, her life isn’t solely about her literary accomplishments and professional endeavors. Susan’s true passion lies with her pack, two beautiful blue merle Australian shepherds. Alongside Seven and Paige Turner, Susan volunteers as a certified Therapy Dog team, spreading joy to high school students, including those with special needs. Beyond their therapeutic work, Seven and Paige Turner shine as professional actors and models, recently gracing the cover of the 2025 Australian Shepherd Calendar by Brown Trout. Their journey reflects Susan’s deep dedication to her dogs and her mission to bring happiness and enrichment to everyone they meet—both human and canine. Woof!🐾

ABOUT THE BOOK

On a purposeful trip to the pound, she hopes to find a dog to care for, one that will sniff out the bad guys. After all, the best way to get a man is to stop searching for love. Men come and go, but her faithful friend will always stay.

Susan might not have found a man, but she finds her dog, giving her a sense of purpose and helping her find meaning in her crazy world. Susan might not have found a man, but she finds her dog, giving her a sense of purpose and helping her find meaning in her crazy world.

By saving a dog, she rescues herself, loving herself as much as her dog loves her.

After all, there is no love like dog love. It can change your life forever, completing you with unconditional love.

Follow Susan on her journey, filled with the ups and downs and the many trials and tribulations that the years have to offer before she realizes that life itself is a gift.

Susan has a way of telling a story that just pulls you in.

I just got the latest book by author Susan Hartzler and like her debut memoir, I was hooked from the first page! Susan has a way of telling a story that just pulls you in. I loved reading about Baldwin’s adventures in helping her care for her dad in his final years. Thanks for another incredible book.

Catherine Ashley

Hartzler's book is a must read for anyone finding themselves in the role of caregiver.

Author Susan Hartzler finds herself in an unenviable position. She is unexpectedly thrust into the role of caregiver when her mother dies and her father is diagnosed with Parkinson’s. What’s amazing about her new book “The Peace Puppy: A Memoir of Caregiving and Canine Solace” is the grace with which she navigates the frightening new world of loss. Hartzler’s story is equal parts heartbreaking and heartwarming. Whenever her father becomes disoriented and asks to go home, she pushes his wheelchair down the driveway, re-enters the front door and yells” Dad, you’re home!” Hartzler’s love for her father knows no bounds. Despite struggling on a daily basis, she juggles doctor’s appointments, prescription medications and the demands of her own career. What’s unique about Hartzler’s story is the inclusion of her rescue dog Baldwin. An incredibly intuitive puli, he is a miniature caregiver, peacemaker and clown. He somehow manages to keep both Hartzler and her father afloat in the most trying of circumstances. Hartzler’s book is a must read for anyone finding themselves in the role of caregiver. It is truly a testament to the human spirit .

Maura Noonan