Ode to a Pug

2026 IPPY Award Finalist!

Do you ever get the feeling that something terrible is about to happen? Where the panic takes over, your eyes widen and you just need to zoom? Well, today is that day for our beloved pug Phoebe as she faces her biggest fear yet - THE VET!

Laugh along to another silly, heartfelt and sweetly illustrated story from the author of the award-winning “Ode to a Pug” books.

Pugs aren't really scared of much (except vacuums, tinfoil, bells, any loud noise…), but there is one place that causes our comical canine to cower - the DREADED VET'S OFFICE!

Join on an epic journey of courage for a little pug with a big heart and a belly full of gas. An amusing rhyming story ideal for children ages 2-8 and dog lovers of all ages.

"Bursting with humor, heart, and charming illustrations, this rhyming read invites children and dog lovers alike to giggle through Phoebe's big-feelings adventure." - The Children's Book Review

"It’s equal parts comedy, chaos, and courage. Young readers will giggle at her anxious antics and cheer when Phoebe finally faces her fear." - The Starlit Path

"The message is clear ... Most scary things aren't as bad as they seem. The writing is also very good, it's written in clever rhymes that flow very well, making it great for reading aloud. It features wonderful illustrations, they're super funny and make you fall in love with Phoebe. I really love the "Ode to a Pug" books, Phoebe is such a great character, I can't wait for the next book!" - Children's Bookshelf

"With witty rhymes, charming characters, and playful pictures, Ode to a Pug: NOT the VET! crafts a funny, lyrical and delightful tale about facing one's fear with courage and support from loved ones." - Icefairy's Treasure Chest

"Ode to a Pug: NOT the VET! is charming, heartfelt, and genuinely funny….especially if you’ve ever loved a pug (or been bossed around by one!). Jill Rosen perfectly captures the quirky magic of these little dogs and turns it into a story that’s both comforting and joyfully entertaining." - Deliciously Savvy

"Humor is throughout the book from Pug accidentally farting in the lobby to hiding in a clothes basket. The illustrations fit the book perfectly. I can’t recommend this book enough to young readers!" - My Reading Getaway

"A great addition to the series, and a wonderful choice for story time, bedtime, or any time!" - Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers

Award-winning, bestselling author Jill Rosen is a career marketer and advertiser who lives with two kids, three dogs, two cats, and a former stand-up comic and Princeton sketch-comedy writing husband. She doesn't need to go far for comedic inspiration or advice! Through her brand management work, Jill's early recognition of, and appreciation for, powerful writing and artistic design only flourished. She is a seasoned workshop facilitator and strategic healthcare consultant, specializing in the areas of mental health and infertility. Jill was inspired to begin writing her own stories by her two boys, both avid readers.