Hi from Haley and Scout!

Welcome to the Paws and Reflect nuance-letter.

Since adopting my blue heeler in 2019, we’ve navigated fear-based dog reactivity, fostered shelter pups, and found joy in chaos. In January 2023 we hit the road for full-time van life! What started as a training journal on Instagram has become a place to reflect on so much more… but still dogs, of course. Always dogs.

Currently, I’m focused on drafting and securing representation for my first book: a memoir-plus reflection weaving together emotional realizations, training insights, and core values from seven years helping my fearful dog handle—and more importantly, enjoy—our shared life.

Sean, Scout, and Haley sit on the step of their converted camper van's open sliding door
My little family, in our little home on wheels.

How things work around here

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By default, you’ll receive posts from the main Paws and Reflect category (dog thoughts, animal-related musings), Write and Reflect (writing and reading reflections), Park and Reflect (all things van life), and Haley’s Journal (personal thoughts beyond those other topics).

You can change which sections you’re signed up for at any time under your subscription settings. I also add multiple tags to each post so you can filter through them that way.

What about paid subscriptions?

It feels like a gift that someone would simply read a piece I’ve written, let alone pay me to read it. That said, a few particularly effort-intensive or personal posts are behind a paywall.

  • Pay monthly or yearly: I’ve set our paid subscription cost to Substack’s minimum amount.

  • Request a free supporter account: I can waive the cost if finances are a barrier. (I mean this! Please do not hesitate to reach out.)


Bark at me

Say hi via haley (at) pawsandreflect.blog.

I don’t check my inbox every single day—but I do make an effort to reply to each genuine message I receive. I should get back to you within a week!


Now go play with your dog

And tell someone you think they’re doing a great job!

  • Our Scout frisbee logo was illustrated by the talented Haley Rogers.

  • Nicole Handel took the featured photo of us posing inside Hermes the van.

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Nuanced thoughts on dog training, behavior, emotions (and more) from a writer, full-time traveler, and animal nerd.

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Writing about creatures (and other whims). Living in a van. Reading lots of books. Here for emotions, nuance, and nerdy thoughts!