Saratoga Dogs: Past to Present 

written by Megin Potter  |  Photos provided

Find Saratoga Dogs: Past to Present on Amazon, at Impressions of Saratoga, and at Revibe Gifts and Wellness. For more information, follow @MeginPotter on Facebook, @MeginPotter53 on Instagram, and visit www.writeress.com

Saratoga Dogs: Past to Present (August 2025) is a timeless collection of Saratoga’s forgotten history featuring the dogs who have shaped our leisure time, laws, and lives in Upstate New York.

Beginning with an exploration into Native American practices and beliefs, this expansive color-illustrated local history book touches on the scientific advancements, military tactics, and new industries that have transformed these animals into the domestic dogs we know today. 

Saratoga Dogs shines a light on the inspiring athletes, the vigilant warriors, and the playful pals who have unlocked our admiration, wrath, and love for generations. 

Getting to Know You

As a Saratoga TODAY newspaper and magazine contributor since 2013. I have written about interesting people, spectacular homes, amazing businesses, awesome organizations, beautiful weddings, and YES, even dogs through the years.

In 2023, I began volunteering with The Friends of Fort Hardy Park, Inc., a 501(c)(3) organization striving to preserve and promote Fort Hardy Park in Schuylerville, NY. Among its other activities, the group is working to create an accessible multi-use trail spanning the 37.5-acre Fort Hardy Park, leading from the Hudson River to the new Schuylerville Dog Park and Community Garden, an off-leash fenced-in free public space located on the Old Champlain Canal Towpath/Empire State Trail, just off Saratoga Street, next to the Schuylerville Boat Launch. 

While embarking on this endeavor, a fascinating story began to unfold around me about our ever-evolving attitudes toward canine companionship in this country.

I spent two years unearthing evidence that proves the dogs of this area have been among our best friends, our bravest heroes, and our most beloved family members. Through eight exclusive interviews and an exploration of more than 120 secondary resources, I examine dogs, their influence on our daily lives, and the impact they’ve had on our notable achievements in Saratoga County and beyond. 

Did You Know? 

On this journey I heard something you already know, which is that dogs are wonderful companions. What you may not know, however, is how we’ve used the dog’s size, speed, and strength – as well as their fantastic sense of smell – to turn the tides of history in this area. And did you know? Each dog’s nose print, like a human fingerprint, is unique? 

From the Pomeranians who swiftly navigated unfamiliar terrain to carry messages across the battlefield; to the Siberian Huskies who raced down Union Avenue in the Saratoga Springs Dog Sled Derbies; to the perky Pocatell, the dog that befriended a thoroughbred racehorse named Seabiscuit, a breakout champion and one of Saratoga’s most beloved underdogs, I share the stories that have shaped us. 

Jam-packed with interesting facts, including how dogs became the South Glens Falls and Ballston Spa Central School District mascots; the downtown restaurant named after a dog; and the paw-some parade that has been attracting Boston Terrier owners to the area for more than a decade; in Saratoga Dogs: Past to Present, you will discover true stories of curious, clever, and courageous canines that will remind you of the dogs in your own life and have you asking others, “Did you know…?”

 A Portion of the proceeds from the sale of this book will benefit the Friends of Fort Hardy Park, Inc. a 501(c)(3) organization creating engaging spaces and activities for all in Schuylerville, NY.