It’s like Dee Dee Murry and her dog Hallie, and me and my dog, Frankie, lived parallel lives.

While my dachshund, Frankie, became paralyzed and was ultimately fitted for a custom dog wheelchair, and learned to move through the world in a new way, and became known as Frankie, the Walk ‘N Roll Dog, Hallie became blind and learned to navigate the world in her own unique way too and would become a star in her own right also and become known as Puppy Picasso.

Standing beside these two pint-sized dogs were two women— each determined to do whatever they could to help their furry companions live a quality of life. From that, each found a purpose and a calling they couldn’t deny. All four would ultimately positively affect the lives of thousands of others through the sharing of their stories to inspire and encourage young and old through difficult times.

When Dee Dee contacted me asking if I’d consider reviewing the book she was writing to share the story of Hallie— Puppy Picasso the true story of a little blind dog who could paint— I was beyond honored. The journey we each walked separately with our pups, but together in a bond that will never be broken, was something I wasn’t about to turn away from.

I knew reading Hallie’s story would bring back memories of my life with Frankie and would likely cause some tears to be shed, but I also knew that I’d likely be reminded of the joy, rewards, and love that can be encountered when we open to see our challenges in a positive way through the eyes of our animal friends.

And I wasn’t wrong. There were tears mixed in with smiles and giggles, but most of all, a depth of connection and understanding that I had relating to what Dee Dee and Hallie went through and how it ultimately and profoundly changed both their lives for the better.

The love between a human and a pet is an extraordinary experience that has the potential to change one’s life in unimaginable ways. Such is the deeply enriching and touching story of Hallie, the blind dachshund who learns to paint, and her devoted human and artistic mom, Dee Dee. Their story of triumph in the face of adversity will open a tender place in your heart. Not only do they each flourish despite obstacles, but they find a way in which to give back to dogs in need, and forever and positively change the lives of countless others—both canine and human. There is nothing the human spirit can’t do with a furry friend as your guide and champion!

Dee Dee and Hallie’s book is available here on Amazon.

To learn more about Dee Dee and her exquisite animal art and pet portraits visit her website here.

XO

Barb