HOW MANY DOGS‪?‬

Sometimes the best detours lead us right where we need to be.

When Ralph Palmer set out to house-sit and pet-sit, he envisioned an orderly life: a simple routine, predictable days, and instructions that made sense. What he got instead was Arthur—an eight-year-old dog with a penchant for sitting on luggage, strong opinions on rainy walks, and an unwavering refusal to follow written plans.

From hilarious threshold standoffs and flooded utility rooms to locked doors, car breakdowns, and quiet late-night vigils when an aging pet falls ill, How Many Dogs? is a deeply comforting, candid memoir about the unexpected messiness of life on the move. Through the lens of caring for other people's homes and beloved animals, Ralph gently exposes our human reluctance to ask for help, our drive to appear perfectly competent, and the quiet grace that meets us when our carefully constructed plans fall apart.

Witty, honest, and filled with rich observations of everyday life, this book offers readers:

Heartwarming & Humorous Canine Encounters: Tender, funny, and deeply relatable stories about the unspoken understanding between dogs and the people who care for them.

A Grounded Exploration of Faith & Grace: Thoughtful reflections on prayer, uncertainty, and letting go of the need for quick, neat answers.

Relatable Human Vulnerability: A gentle reminder that receiving kindness, accepting help, and acknowledging our limits is often where true connection begins.

Perfect for fans of James Herriot, cozy memoirs, and pet lovers everywhere, How Many Dogs? is a warm cup of tea for the soul—inviting you to slow down, smile at the awkward moments, and notice the extraordinary acts of care hidden within ordinary days.