Dana Perino Discusses Her Media Journey in New Book

Dana Perino recently joined “Saturday Night” to promote her latest book, “I Hope Someone Told Me…” In the conversation, she explored her path to becoming a press secretary and her ongoing career in media.

A couple of weeks back, I found myself feeling unusually anxious. I mean, I usually don’t stress like that, but something was definitely off. I tried to pinpoint the issue. It wasn’t related to health or family—those were all fine. Work pressures were manageable, thankfully.

It felt a bit like that back-to-school anxiety. I started thinking about old friends, if Tracy and I would end up in the same chemistry class again—or whether we’d have the courage to open our lockers on that first day. Strange how those feelings come back sometimes.

Perhaps the colors of fall are creeping into Central Park already? Anyway, I’m actually looking forward to some cooler weather and, of course, football season (well, sort of).

Then it hit me—my worry was about Percy. Ah, he’s doing okay. As my husband Peter puts it, he’s our “butcher dog.” But lately, I noticed some white hair on Percy’s chin, and when he turned five, I panicked. I started counting the years, which I think is typical for dog owners.

“Peter and I are always talking about Percy. He helps us connect, keeps things light at home, and reminds us to live in the moment,”

I thought, “If he’s five, we might only have about nine years left together.” That thought? It really scares me. I mentioned the gray hairs to Peter.

“Yes, but remember, Vizslas gray early,” he reassured me. “He’ll just be four next month.”

I hesitated, “Wait, really? Only four?”

Peter did some quick calculations: “Yep, he was born in 2021. We got him that November.”

A wave of relief washed over me. It felt like I gained a year back. “Thank goodness,” I exclaimed.

And thankfully, Peter didn’t think I was overreacting.

It was just four years ago that Jasper, our beloved American dog, passed away after a brief battle with cancer. That memory still stings. I think about him and our previous Vizsla, Henry, all the time.

While heartaches fade, it’s amazing how quickly they can bring tears to my eyes.

Percy, however, is a remarkable addition to our family. He’s quite different from the others. Quirkier, faster, and even somewhat charming.

He loves to chase a ball and has a knack for carrying multiple toys at once.

Percy has a soft spot for his stuffed animal—an adorable bear given to him when he joined us.

The beach is another favorite spot of his, though he prefers to run along the shore rather than swim. He’s not too keen on deep water.

I used to worry about that, but I’ve come to see it as safer for him. My eyes are always on him.

As one of the 68 million American households that have dogs, I find joy in having Percy around. He truly enriches our lives.

“Peter and I frequently find ourselves discussing Percy. He bonds us, lifts our spirits, and encourages us to enjoy the present moment.”

This is why National Dog Day is so meaningful. It reminds us how special our pets are and how important it is to live in the now, without stressing about what’s to come. Just like them, we should embrace the present—no worries about gray hair or tomorrows. They are all about now.