Wheely Willy, the Tiny Parapeligic Celebrity Dog, Passes Away December 22nd

Posted by Barbara Techel


Frankie and I wish to express our deepest sympathy to Deborah Turner and the passing of her celebrity dog, Wheely Willy, the tiny parapeligic dog that brought immense hope and joy to the world. My heart aches greatly for Deborah, but I know Willy is safely in God’s arms and an angel like no other. God Bless Willy and Deborah for all their amazing work.  Rest in peace little one.

This portion below is from Wheely Willy’s website.  Please visit his website to read more about all the beautiful work he and his Mom, Deborah did.

Wheely Willy, the tiny paraplegic dog passed away in his sleep this morning, December 22, 2009.   Best known for his inspirational story of hope and courage, this 22 year old miracle lived one of the most amazing lives of any companion animal.  Many years ago Willy was abandoned in a cardboard box having sustained serious back and neck injuries.  His story was chronicled on many television shows including Animal Planet.  Today, the facts surrounding Willy’s birth, prior life, and injuries, still remain a mystery.  Following his adoption by Deborah, and acclimation to his new family of rescued animals, Willy found ways of conquering his challenges, becoming a symbol for many, of strength and willpower.  He became enabled by a K-9 Cart, which changed his life, allowing him to get around on his own by propelling himself with his front legs.  His humanitarian endeavors of comforting patients of every age in hospitals, and giving people hope for their own lives gave him notoriety.  The small dog’s many visits to convalescent homes, civic groups and schools turned him into a teaching tool for children and adults that our actions are very important, because our lives are what we make of it.   

My Two Favorite Christmas Cards this Year

Posted by Barbara Techel

I got all misty-eyed when on the same day, both of these sweet cards below arrived in my mailbox.  First I opened the one from, The Watson’s.  Their dog, Olive, is a disabled dachshund, just like Frankie, who loves to go to the beach– and gets through the sand really well in her all wheel drive cart!  You may remember the interview I did with Olive’smom in January 2009.  And Olive’s Dad wrote the sweetest song about her too.

The other photo card is of Scooby Roo, a 6-month old dog born without front limbs, found under a wrecked car in a gang-ridden neighborhood.  He was fighting to live and wanted so badly to live. He will need to be fitted for different wheelchairs as he grows since he is a puppy.  Seeing him in his first set of wheels, which we donated to, made my heart fill with such love.  Go, Scooby Roo, Go!

The determination of these sweet animals is such a blessing to behold.  To know each of them, and so many more because of the work Frankie and I do is a blessing I find hard to even find adequate words for.  But opening those cards and seeing their precious faces was the best gift I could get.  Wishing Scooby Roo and his care takers and Olive and her Mom and Dad… and all those that love the special needs animals, and all others too– we wish you the best this holiday season and always.