Pete (http://home.maine.rr.com/thevervilles/photos.html), the adorable, blind and deaf dog of Linda Verville, made his journey to heaven on April 7th, 2008. He lived to the ripe old age of 15. Pete was a beautiful example of not letting blindness or deafness get in the way of living his dog life to the fullest. For more on Pete and his book visit, http://home.maine.rr.com/thevervilles/home.html.
I met Linda when I was doing research on my children’s book about Frankie. Linda was instrumental in providing feedback about her knowledge and experience in taking Pete to schools to share his positive message. Linda gave of her time freely to me and encouraged and guided me at the beginning of my book about Frankie. We had this kindred connection for animals. She loved Pete so much and truly believed he could make a difference in the lives of others. And that he did, most brilliantly. I can just imagine the pain of her loss of Pete. He worked at her side, sharing a message of hope and inspiration to all those they met. They brought many smiles and touched many, many hearts deeply.
Even though Pete has moved to another realm on his journey, I believe he will be with Linda always. He will travel in spirit next to her. Linda and all the lives Pete touched will never be the same again… their lives are better and stronger because of the lesson of compassion Pete taught. He will live on in the hearts of many… including mine. Thank you, Linda for sharing Pete with others and thank you, Pete for teaching us that life is about living it to the fullest, no matter what.