Teaching Kids About Special Needs Pets & How to Be Positive Despite Challenges

It's hard to believe it is has been since 2008 that Frankie and I have been teaching kids about special needs pets, while also encouraging them to see their own challenges in a positive way. This is such rewarding work. Each visit we now do seems even more precious since Frankie is semi-retired.

Recently we visited a small catholic school, Shepherd of the Hills. It was such a delightful school and the kids were oober crazy to meet Frankie! I'm so excited to share these photos with you that the school took and granted me permission to share.  Each photo describes what Frankie and I teach the kids during our presentation.  Side note:  It was catholic school week, so today's theme was tropical, so that is why the students are all dressed so colorfully.  :)


This student is learning how to put Frankie in her wheelchair with a little help from me.


Student learning how Frankie's wheelchair all fits together.


A big round of applause for this student doing such a great job in helping Frankie into her wheelchair


Explaining to the students how I have to express Frankie's bladder since she can't do that on her own because of her Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). I then show them a photo of how I hold Frankie over the toilet as I express her bladder. As you can imagine, this gets lots of giggles!


I ask for three volunteers to come up and learn how to do physical therapy on Frankie. This student is getting ready to do one of the exercises I did for Frankie when she was recovering and healing.


This student is learning how to do a range of motion exercise for Frankie


This student learned how to move Frankie's leg and pretend like Frankie was pedaling a bicycle in this exercise


Showing Frankie's dog wheelchair to the students so they can see what it looks like without her in it


The grand finale is showing the students how I trained Frankie to walk in her wheelchair. I hold a treat in my hand and as soon as I start to walk, Frankie follows me.  The students cheer and clap and this always warms my heart... right down to my toes.

My Recent Visit to Notre Dame Elementary School

Elementary students from Notre Dame School of De Pere were treated to a visit from author Barbara Techel, right, and her inspirational pet — Frankie, the Walk ‘n Roll Dog — on Jan. 19. / Submitted


Reprinted from the Green Bay Gazette:

Notre Dame School of De Pere
The elementary students were treated to a visit by Frankie, the Walk 'n Roll Dog, on Thursday, Jan. 19. Frankie and her owner, author Barbara Techel, shared their touching story with the students.
When Frankie, a dachshund, suffered a spinal injury, Ms. Techel had her fitted with a custom wheelchair. Frankie persevered and now volunteers as a therapy dog at local hospitals and nursing homes, spreading joy and hope wherever they go.
Their message to the Notre Dame students was threefold: think positive, make a difference and keep on rolling.
Students were able to purchase books about Frankie and have them signed by both Barbara and Frankie — with her paw print. A portion of all book proceeds is donated to various disabled animal charities

Here is the replay of the interview my mom, author Barbara Techel did with Deb Scott of The Best People We Know radio show. Deb is a fantastic radio host full of energy and enthusiasm.  Pass this radio show onto those that you know may need a shot of inspiration, or those that have a special needs pet, or teachers looking for a great program to educate their kids about differences and challenges.

Also available on itunes!

Deb Scott, Host of The Best People We Know Interviews Author Barbara Techel

Deb Scott, author, certified professional coach, radio host, and motivational speaker changes lives with an ability to inspire individuals to transform the bad into good.

I'm excited that Deb will be interviewing my mom, author Barbara Techel about the many lessons that I teach children.

When:  Tuesday, Novemeber 15th, 2011

Time:  10:00am CST, 11:00a EST

Where:  Blog Talk Radio- listen right on your computer or return another day to hear the replay if you can't make it on the 15th.

To learn more about Barbara & Frankie you can find them many places on the web!

Joyful Paws Website
Barbara on Facebook
Frankie on Facebook
Frankie on Twitter
Barbara on Twitter
Barbara on LinkedIn

114 Frankie Books Going to Jefferson Elementary School

114 books signed by my mom, author Barbara Techel and pawtographed by me ready for delivery to Jefferson Elementary School!

My mom, Barbara Techel and I love doing author visits to schools in our state of Wisconsin (we also do Skype visits!) Sharing my PAWSitive message with students is very rewarding!  Today I am very excited to be visiting the 2nd and 6th grade students of Jefferson Elementary school.

When my mom and I started visiting schools almost 4 years ago, Jefferson Elementary was one of the first schools we visited. At the time the 6th graders were in 2nd grade. So now I get to see them once again and share updates about what I've been up to (like my therapy dog work which my mom wrote about in my newest book, Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Therapy Dog Visits Libby's House.)

And to top off what is already going to be a special day, one of the parents generously paid for a copy of each of my books to be given to each 2nd and 6th grade student. How arf-a-roo wonderful is that?!??  My mom and I were very, very touched.

Book Review: Animals and the Kids Who Love Them

As I read about the bond between children and pets in "Animals and the Kids Who Love Them" I felt my heart ooze with joy as tears streamed down my face. In a world, that at times, can be full of heartache and uncertainty, I often wonder about the future of our children. 

Reading this book, I found hope in the creatures that God created who are helping to shape the lives of our young generation- animals who provide comfort, unconditional love, and a safe place for kids to just be themselves. It gave me hope that as long as we continue to respect and honor that bond, and allow it to work its magic, that there is always hope for our children's futures.

I am in awe and gratitude for the countless number of people who give of their time and dedication to bring children together with animals, giving them experiences they may have never gotten. Enriching their lives through loving a furry pal who they can share all their secrets with, and who will never judge them.

I've personally witnessed the profound magic that can happen between a child and an animal as the mom to Frankie the Walk `N Roll Dog, my special needs pet, and her close bond with a special needs little boy named Jackson(featured in the book). As I read the other stories in this book, I felt a soulful connection with each of the people who have had the distinct honor of seeing that same amazing bond- there is nothing quite like it.

Bravo to Linda and Allen Anderson for putting together a collection of stories that will grab hold of your heart and never let go... and how enriched your life will become after you share in the delight and wonder of the bond between child and animal.

~Barbara Techel, Award-winning author of Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Dog book series

Bookworm Gardens to Host Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Dog & Author Barbara Techel

A Frankie fan giving Frankie's statue at Bookworm Gardens a big smooch!

I'm very excited to announce our special appearance at Bookworm Gardens October 15th, 2011. This is in conjunction with the Sheboygan's Children's Book Festival Oct. 14-16 where you can meet many more authors.  We have some fun activities planned!

Saturday, October 15th, 2011 10:00-11:30am Color your own Frankie! Enter into drawing for three fabulous prize packages! Design an outfit for Frankie! Have your picture taken with real Frankie (bring your cameras)! Get a signed and pawtographed copy of your favorite Frankie book(s) Halloween magnets, as well as other Frankie products will also be for sale A portion of all books sales will benefit Bookworm Gardens. 1415 Campus Drive, Sheboygan, WI  53081 Directly across from UW-Sheboygan 920-287-7895

Thank you to the Green Bay Gazette for the wonderful write up of our recent visit to Kress Family Library in DePere, Wisconsin.

Reprinted from Green Bay Gazette

Author Barbara Techel's wheelchair-bound miniature dachshund Frankie rests her head on the table as Techel reads one of her award-winning books at the Kress Family Library Branch in De Pere on Friday. / Evan Siegle/Press-Gazette

Author Barbara Techel simply wants to uplift children through her books.

The self-proclaimed animal lover spent time on Friday at the Kress Family Branch Library in De Pere doing just that with her words — and with an adorable assist from her canine companion.

Frankie, an 11-year-old miniature dachshund, is the inspiration for Techel's series of children's books that promote positive attitudes. "Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Dog'' and "Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Therapy Dog Visits Libby's House,'' tell how the dog overcame a major medical challenge and has been spreading joy to others ever since.
"Frankie's story is so uplifting," said Techel, who lives in Elkhart Lake. "Even faced with a hardship, she has remained positive."
Five years ago, Frankie ruptured a disk in her back, leaving her confined to a dog cart. Not knowing how her dog was going to respond to being unable to walk on all four paws, Techel was pleasantly surprised at Frankie's willingness to continue as if nothing had happened.

"Frankie was really challenged as she was put into a wheelchair. Despite that, her spirits remained positive,'' she said.

Already an author by the time Frankie began to have medical problems, Techel was inspired by the dog to share her story through children's books. The two of them have made more than 300 visits to schools, libraries and organizations in Wisconsin to help encourage children and adults to overcome adversity.
After the reading at the library, there was a long line of children waiting to talk with Techel, purchase books, and of course, pet Frankie.

"I wanted to take Frankie home with me," said 7-year-old Venna VanRemortr. "It was really good."

VanRemortr and her older sister, Athena, come to the summer readings at the library with their grandmother Sybil Warner. This time, they say they were happy to be able to interact with the dog.

"We loved it," Warner said. "She was so articulate when reading, and it all flowed nicely."

— kmccrae@greenbaypressgazette .com and follow her on Twitter @PGKelcieMcCrae

WriterViews: How Barbara Techel & Her Dog, Frankie turned a Paralyzing Accident into a Positive Message

Lauren Barnes of WriterViews recently, my award winning author mom, Barbara Techel via Skype and I got to be on the call with them!  What is so great is not only can you hear the interview but you get to see us! Oh what fun we had!  We love technology and being able to be interviewed right in our studio was such fun. You can also get a sneak peek at me as Lauren talks to my mom about her writing process, what inspires her, and her advice to other writer's.

WJ Niederkorn Library to Host Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Dog & Children's Author Barbara Techel

WHEN:  Thursday, June 23rd, 2011

WHERE:  WJ Niederkorn Library, 316 West Grand Avenue, Port Washington, WI

TIME:  1:30pm

WHAT:  Frankie was diagnosed with Intervertebral Disc Disease in 2006 after rupturing a disk in her back which caused paralysis. Hear her inspirational story of triumph and living life to the fullest in her doggie wheelchair. Interactive with participants helping demonstrate how Frankie gets out of her wheelchair and helping to do exercises with Frankie's back legs. Many giggles with slide presentation of fun photos of Frankie. Come meet the little dog dubbed as the "Ambassador of Inspiration" and star of her own award winning book series.  Half hour presentation will be followed by Q & A.  

Books will be avaialble for sale after presentation.

We hope to see you there!

Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Dog Interviews Author Barbara Techel (Part 2)

This is part two of my interview with children's book author, Barbara Techel (hint: She is my mom!)

Click here if you missed part 1.

 

What is your favorite thing about being an author?

Very good question, Frankie!  I think you pay attention when we visit schools and children ask questions, because this is one that I get asked now and then.  Good dog, Frankie. Good dog.

There is so much I like about being an author. It is hard to pick just one thing.  But, one thing I really like is knowing that the stories I have written about you are out in the world, making a difference.  I may not always hear that they are, but I believe and feel in my heart that your story is helping others. 

Another thing I like is all the children you and I have met visiting schools and libraries, as well as when we do Skype visits.  I never get tired of telling your story and watching the smiles and curiosity on children’s faces, as well as their endless questions about you, and their accepting and sweet love for you.  We have met some pretty special children, and this makes me feel so very blessed.  I’m so excited for your story about Jackson, a little boy with a form of cerebral palsy, and your special friendship with him that will be coming out this fall in a book from New World Library, Animals and the Kids Who Love Them.  In that story, I grew as a writer and felt so good for it.  You see, my little one, I always felt so different and strange that I never had the urge to want children of my own.  I felt like something was very wrong with me.  But I realized in so many of the children we have met and what we do now sharing your story with them, that this was what God meant for my life.  Jackson is one of those special children that helped me to see that even if I don’t have children of my own, I can still nurture and mentor others.   Being able to share that I felt odd through the story I wrote about you and Jackson for Animals and the Kids Who Love Them and not being afraid to do so, opened me up even more, and helped me see that this was the path I was meant to take… writing your books, and all the visits we have done, and all the children we have met gave me the courage, as an author, to share something that was very personal for me.  But I believe by doing so, it will help others… and that is one of the best things about being an author… helping others see things in a new way, or not feel bad about who they are.

I remember a little boy at Brooklyn Elementary School asking you what you’d rather have, a Frankie that walked or one that did not- can you share with the readers your answer?

That was a powerful moment, wasn’t it, Frankie?  I told him that, of course, I wish you could walk normally on your own again.  But I also told him that I would not trade one moment with you as a dog in a wheelchair, and all that I have learned, and the many, many blessings that have come into my life because of you.  I also told him that someday when you are no longer here (which I pray is many years away!) that I would love another special needs dog.

Moments like those are so special as it reminds me of the power of sharing your story Frankie, and how glad I am that I wrote the books I have about you.  It is my hope that by educating our younger generation that more animals with special needs will be given a chance.

I know you think I am pretty special (flashing my fawn like eyes as I say that)… But what do you want most for people to know about special needs pets?

I think what I want them most to know is that they really are not any different than other animals.  Yes, they may require different or special care, but all they want is to love and be loved.  Just like humans do.  Too often I think others take pity on animals with disabilities and it’s not that they perhaps think they are “less than” it’s just that some perceive this as imperfect or sad.  But nothing in this world is perfect.  

I still recall vividly two months after your diagnoses and the fact your back legs showed no signs of improvement and how the reality set in that it was likely you would not walk on your own again- I began to feel sorry for you and me.  But I realized one day that this was not going to solve anything, but only make things worse and harder to bear.  I could feel sorry for you the rest of your life, but how would that have helped either of us thrive?  We have to find the good in each situation and work with that- because there is no perfect, no matter what your situation.

I think in our efforts to be perfect, and to have perfect pets and perfect children we miss out on the real value of life and all it has to teach us. 

Each morning when I get out your doggie stroller and we go for our walk, I find myself so in love with watching you see the world… you don’t care that you can’t physically do it yourself- you are still being you- being a dog- watching every bird, squirrel, butterfly, and bunny with intent, and curiosity.  Your ears fly in the wind, your nose lifts to the sky, and your eyes close half way as you soak in all the sweetness of a new day.  You may have “special needs” but it is not what I see when I observe you in moments like this… what I see is that animals really do get what life is about, and the more I see of it, the more I want of it too…. And how I would have likely missed out on all this, if it were not for you, Frankie, my little love dog on wheels.

Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Dog Interviews Author Barbara Techel (Part 1)

This is part one of Frankie's interview with author Barbara Techel.  Stay tuned for part two Wed. June 1st.  You never know what this little dog on tires will say or ask, so tune in again next week!

So I just have to ask the most important question right away.  What is it that you love about me?

Oh Frankie!  As always, you are the little stinker, aren’t you?  I love everything about you!  You are such a special little dog with a very big heart.  I love that you have taught me to expand on my compassion by teaching me what a blessing special needs pets are.  I never thought about pets with disabilities until you were diagnosed with IVDD—now I can’t imagine my life without a pet with special needs.

I also love how you are so loyal to me, how you would snuggle on my lap all day if I let you, and how you intently stare at me each morning with your little brown mouse eyes and don’t give up until I finally stir and wake up. You are relentless!!… but I still love you.

Most of all I love all the feelings of joy and love you have put in my heart… I truly believe I am a better human being because of you.

Aww shucks, Mom… if I could blush, I would.  Ok, so about those books your wrote about me, Frankie the Walk ‘N Roll Dog book series- why did you write them?

Well you see little Frankie, though I don’t want you to feel bad about this,  I almost made a very, very bad mistake and put you to sleep when you were diagnosed with IVDD and were only given a 10-30% chance of walking even with surgery. I just couldn’t imagine that you would have a quality life if you couldn’t use your hind legs.

Thank goodness I didn’t do that because of the help from your grandma, your papa, and the vets assuring me all would be ok, I did the right thing for you.  And wow, you took over from there and watching you move forward despite all you had been through, made me realize I could help other dachshunds and pet parents see that IVDD is a manageable disease.  So many people don’t know the options available.

I also was so surprised when I took you out in public for the first time and how children loved seeing you in your wheels and were asking all kinds of questions about you.

I then got this really awesome feeling in my heart after all we had been through and knew, just knew, that even though I had never written a children’s book that this is what I was meant to do!  You gave me the courage, little Frankie, to write your story and to not be afraid, but to just go for it… and follow my heart.

Wow, Mom, I did all that for you?  ARF-A-ROO!  So what is one of the biggest lessons you have learned from me?

I have learned so much from you, sweet Frankie.  The one lesson that is in my mind today is one I shall share for this interview. 

I used to worry so much about what others thought about me.  I was so insecure.  I always had to make sure I looked my best when going out, and would constantly worry if I was skinny enough or pretty enough.  Oh, how I wish I could take back all that worrying!  When I look back now, it seems such a waste of time. 

When I had to make the decision to have you custom-fitted for a dog wheelchair, it was not something I immediately accepted.  You see, I really wanted you to walk on your own again.  I was also worried what others would think of me if I had a dog in a wheelchair, as if that was a bad thing.  But I realized by getting you a dog wheelchair that you could run and play and do all the dog things you could before, so I knew then the wheelchair was the right thing for you. But I still had to get over my fear that others would think it mean or strange that I had a dog with wheels.

I so wish I had never thought that way, but now I know better.  When your wheelchair arrived and you tried it out for the first time, I was elated!  Watching you get around in your wheels, it occurred to me that you had no concern for how you looked, but only that you had your freedom again. It was as if you didn’t even realize you had wheels now for back legs.

I knew then by observing you being who you always were that I had a choice, too.  I could worry what others thought about me, or I could do something positive and educate others that dogs with wheelchairs can live quality lives, and that there is nothing wrong with a dog having a wheelchair.  You taught me to hold my head high no matter what… and ultimately t that spilled over into many other areas of my life.

Now I don’t worry so much anymore.  Ok, so once an a while I do, but that is because I am human and believe me, there are days I truly wish I was a dog like you living with loving, caring parents like you have.  You got it made little one!  But all kidding aside, I have come so far in being me and liking me.  It is such a good place to be… and all because of you, Frankie…. You taught me that.

Disabled Dachshund Becomes First Ever Cyber Therapy Dog with Companions for the Soul

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE    

Award-winning Author Barbara Techel and her paralyzed therapy dog, Frankie, have been chosen as the first ever cyber therapy dog team. They will appear via Skype to share their inspiring story of learning to see challenges in a positive way and encourage volunteerism despite obstacles we may face.

ELKHART LAKE, WI — Barbara Techel and her 11-year old wheelchair-bound dachshund will share their inspiring and uplifting story about how Frankie suffered a spinal injury, was custom-fitted for a wheelchair, persevered, and became a volunteer therapy dog through Barbara’s award-winning book series, Frankie the Walk ‘N Roll Dog.

They will be appearing via Skype in conjunction with Companions for the Soul(CFTS)who is hosting this first time event on May 31^st, 2011.  Barbara and Frankie will be sharing their story with Woodside Elementary School and their K-2 Literacy program. CFTS is a non-profit therapy dog organization based in California and is hosting this first time ever event. CFTS’s programs are targeted at enriching the lives of the handicapped, autistic and special needs children. When executive director, Ginger Mozzetti, discovered Frankie and Barbara through their website, and the work they are doing, she contacted Barbara to ask if Frankie would be their first ever cyber therapy dog and partner with CFTS.

Barbara will share Frankie’s story, a selected reading, and answer questions. And most importantly, Frankie will be there to promote both her books, Frankie the Walk ‘N Roll Dog and Frankie the Walk ‘N Roll Therapy Dog Visits Libby’s House to bring the children smiles and joy by being in her presence, as well as encourage the students to read and see their challenges in a positive way.

We all face challenges in life, but when we choose to be positive despite obstacles, we find that our challenges can often time lead to some of our most pivotal learning opportunities.  Frankie taught her owner, Barbara just that, and now Barbara finds great joy in helping others benefit from Frankie’s amazing attitude and valuable life lessons.

Frankie the Walk ‘N Roll Dog book series is a true collection told from Frankie’s viewpoint. The first book tells how Frankie overcame adversity and lives every day to the fullest despite her disability, while the second book in the series, tells how Frankie became a registered therapy dog and gives personal accounts of her visits to the residents of Libby’s House, a senior assisted facility where many residents have Alzheimer’s or dementia.

To learn about Barbara and Frankie visit http://www.joyfulpaws.com and to learn more about CFTS visithttp://www.companionsforthesoul.org.

Who's Savin' Who? How Rescued Special Needs Pets Rescue Us

This is a special invitation to join in a heart-warming, thoughtful discussion of how special needs pets can affect our lives in ways we never imagined. 

Join author Mary Shafer of Almost Perfect Pets and the People Who Love Them and award winning author, Barbara Techel of Frankie the Walk ‘N Roll Dog book series as they begin their discussion which they hope will help others see special needs pets in a whole new and wonderful way.

This discussion will begin Sunday, May 22^nd, 2011 and will run through Saturday, May 28th on host Darlene Arden’s popular Facebook Fan page. Darlene is an award winning author, journalist, speaker and certified animal behavior consultant.  She is passionate about the welfare of animals and her goal is always the same: To enhance the lives of dogs and cats. Her newest book now out, The Complete Cat's Meow: Everything You Need to Know about Caring for Your Cat. Darlene has hosted numerous discussions on her previous group Facebook page, “Rover! Get Off Her Leg!” which you can view in the archives.

 

Mary and Barbara hope to encourage others to give thoughtful consideration to a special needs pet as well as resources to help educate others about the options, and help in caring for a special needs pet.

We invite you to join in the discussion to share your stories as well as resources you may know to help enlighten others of all the blessings that these animals truly are.

Mary's special needs pet, Idgie, born without eyes.

 

Barbara's special needs pet, Frankie, known as the "walk 'n roll dog" who has Intervertebral Disc Disease.

 

Valentine Special on Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Dog Book Series

Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Dog book series is great for the young and old in your life to give the gift of love, hope, and inspiration.  In honor of the day devoted to love, Valentine's Day, we are running a special on our book series.
Regularly $14.95, they are now $10.00 each along with shipping reduced to half!  But hurry, this offer will end Feb. 14th, 2011, but the gift of Frankie's stories will live on in the hearts of your loved ones for a long time to come.
PS:  Even if you don't give as a Valentine gift, Frankie books make great birthday gifts or for upcoming holidays such as Easter so this is a great time to stock up!  Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Therapy Dog Visits Libby's House also makes a great gift for the elderly in your lives.

Each copy ordered will be autographed by author Barbara Techel and pawtographed by Frankie!

Order your copies today!


A true, inspirational story about a dachshund whose life started out just like any other dog walking on all four paws until a spinal injury leaves her paralyzed. Frankie is custom-fitted for a wheelchair and learns to keep on rolling. Her zest for life will have you cheering and she will give you hope that all things are possible. Frankie will leave an everlasting and loving paw print on your heart. A book for all ages to teach overcoming challenges and also compassion for the physically challenged.

Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Dog keeps rolling along in her doggie wheelchair. This paralyzed dachshund' unabashed healing, exuberant spirit, and spunky personality is a blessed gift to everyone she befriends. In this true, inspirational story, Frankie tells how she became a registered therapy dog and shares her visits to Libby's House, a senior facility where many residents have Alzheimer's or dementia. Frankie teaches us that patience, listening, and understanding opens our hearts to what matters most-love.

Happy Holidays from Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Dog!

Wishing each and everyone of you a joyful Christmas and a New Year filled with many moments of joy!  

We are so grateful that you follow us on our journey and look forward to another year of being positive, making a difference, and rolling on!

Smile Pretty!

My mom insisted I have my picture taken with the book my story is featured in, which was just released, "Dogs and the Women Who Love Them." Hint:  I don't mind having my photo taken, but pretend I do.  That's the naughty side of me.
The stories in this book made my mom, laugh, cry and hug me even closer than she usually does!  We will have them available for sale on our website soon... your chance to get an autographed copy if you'd like!  Stay tuned...

O Magazine Recommends Book Featuring Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Dog

NEWS

For Immediate Release

O Magazine Recommends Book Featuring Wisconsin Disabled Dog

Frankie the Walk ’N Roll Dog, along with award-winning author mom, Barbara Techel are featured in new book, “Dogs and the Women Who Love Them” by Linda and Allen Anderson.

Elkhart Lake, WI – In their new book Minneapolis authors show why seven out of ten, or 69% of women between the ages of 18 and 49 own a pet, and 89% of women spend as much or more on their pets despite the recession (Lifetime Networks FemniNation poll).

Allen and Linda Anderson’s new book Dogs and the Women Who Love Them: Extraordinary True Stories of Loyalty, Healing and Inspiration. (New World Library) with a forward by #1 New Your Times best-selling author Rory Freedman, demonstrates how dogs and women transform each other’s lives. Each case study in the book involves canine companions bringing out the best in their humans and vice versa. According to Linda Anderson, “when the nurturing nature of females meets the loyalty and affection of dogs, it’s a match made in heaven.”

O Magazine recommended Dogs and the Women Who Love Them, and it’s on the Oprah.com website. Betty White, Wendy Malick, Vanessa Williams, and American Humane Association, among others endorsed the book.  In this collection of true stories, women around the country, dogs serve as companions, listeners, canine children, matchmakers, creatures to rescue, and protectors.

Local resident of Elkhart Lake, Barbara Techel entered a contest sponsored by the Anderson’s in September 2009 when they were looking for stories for their new book.  Barbara says, “I remember reading about the contest and becoming very emotional.  I just knew I had to enter the contest because my dogs have helped change and shape my life for the better.”  Barbara placed 2^nd place and is so honored to be among the stories in the book.

Additional Highlights of the Book

·         Miguel, a Newfoundland-Labrador mix introduced an impoverished childe to Rosanne Nordstrom, a resourceful woman who became like a mother to him; their new family serves as Chicago’s version of the popular movie The Blind Side—plus a dog.

·         Beau, a rescued black Lab became a “co-founder” of Patriot PAWS, a Texas nonprofit that Lori Stevens started to train service dogs for disabled veterans; Beau was featured on NBC Nightly News, Late Night with David Letterman, and Animal Planet.

·         Major, an abused and neglected German shepherd, saved the life of national-award winning police dog trainer, Janet Koch Ballard while serving as her K-9 partner.

·         Dagnabit, a rescued pit bull was tortured while being trained for dogfights; his plight inspired Kim Dudek to found Dag’s house in New Orleans to rehabilitate and shelter special needs dogs.

Rory Freedman says, “This book will open your heart, warm your soul, and make you proud to be a dog-loving woman.”

Karen Holt, reviewer for O Magazine says about the book, “The rescuing works both ways… as canines who’ve suffered abuse, neglect, or misfortune seek and comfort humans who’ve endured the same.”

For more information about Linda and Allen visit website, www.angelanimals.net or  http://www.dogsandthewomenwholovethem.com/index.html for information about Barbara Techel and Frankie visit, www.joyfulpaws.com