Читать книгу The Rescued Dog Problem Solver - Tracy J. Libby - Страница 2

Foreword

On December 14, 2011, my parents and I stopped at a local shelter and rescued J’mee—a scruffy white Terrier mix. She is not my family’s first rescue dog, nor will she be our last. Yet, she got me thinking, “What if?” Could I connect the world of rescue using images and stories of success to drive change in the public’s perception of rescue dogs? Watching J’mee change from a worried, confused little gal into a confident, wonderfully silly, loving companion was the catalyst, the inspiration that turned stories and images into messages of hope.

I have tried to capture the unique life and personality within each dog, the soul inside the endless contrasts of breed, size, personality, scars, scruffy coats, and experiences these dogs have encountered over the years that they have been loved, lost, abandoned, abused, surrendered, or, in some cases, forgotten.

I have tried, as much as possible, to pare away the more shocking details and instead focus on unleashing the true essence of each dog, as well as their typical and sometimes unique training challenges. Each of these dogs is incredible in his or her own way, as are their owners. I’m so thankful to have had the lucky privilege to meet them, to spend time with them, and to have the opportunity to share their ridiculously cute, quirky personalities and stories of success. They make my heart sing, make me giggle, and make me cry happy tears for having been lucky enough to meet them.

Hats off and a million thanks to the owners who shared their dogs’ stories so I could bring them to all of you.

I dedicate this book to the shelter dogs who waited patiently for their permanent homes, and to those who continue to wait. To the dogs who make our lives worth living. The dogs who hunt, herd, retrieve, catch Frisbees, chase balls, and swim. To the dogs who warm our hearts, make us grin from ear to ear, remind us of the beauty of love, and fill our lives with purpose and passion.