Big Blend Radio’s “Pet Connection” show explores the magic of children’s literature, therapy dogs, and holiday traditions in New York City with special guest Andy Honda, MD, author of the “Koa’s Ruff Life” series. Andy shares how her real-life therapy dog, Koa, inspires her heartwarming stories—especially the newest book, “Koa’s Ruff Life: Christmas Time in New York City.”
From Fifth Avenue’s iconic holiday windows to the Rockefeller Center Tree, Bryant Park Winter Village, The Rockettes, The Nutcracker, and more, this conversation reveals how Koa’s real-life adventures bring comfort, learning, and joy to children of all backgrounds. Co-host Angela Laws of TrustedHousesitters also joins the discussion, highlighting the importance of pet care, animal interaction, and emotional wellness in families and communities.
Learn more at:
🐾 Koa’s Ruff Life: https://www.koasrufflife.com
🐾 Andy Honda, MD: https://www.andyhondamd.com
🐾 TrustedHousesitters: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com
🎧 More “Pet Connection” episodes: https://pet-connection.podbean.com
🎙️This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Big Daily Blend,” “Quality of Life,” and “Toast to The Arts” podcast channel. Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork
Dogs, Children’s Books & Holiday Magic in NYC
Author Andy Honda, MD shares the real-life adventures behind Koa’s Ruff Life: Christmas Time in New York City.
Nov 20, 2025
Big Blend Media
Mother-daughter team (Nancy J. Reid & Lisa D. Smith) leading Big Blend Media since 1997. 40+ podcasts & digital magazines across 17 specialty Substacks: the arts, travel, culture, history, nature, and more.
Mother-daughter team (Nancy J. Reid & Lisa D. Smith) leading Big Blend Media since 1997. 40+ podcasts & digital magazines across 17 specialty Substacks: the arts, travel, culture, history, nature, and more.Recent Episodes











