If you are regular followers of my blog, you know how I have loved following the journey of Baxter, the world’s oldest and greatest therapy dog, who sadly passed away on Friday, October 16th at the age of 19 1/2.  You can read more from a previous post.

All proceeds from Baxter’s book are donated to various charities in honor & memory of Baxter

Two days after Baxter’s passing, his Mom and Dad received the news that his book, Moments with Baxter won the presigious USA Book News National Best Book Award 2009.  I can only imagine the swirl of emotions they had with this news.

The book and inspiration behind it would not have been without Baxter.  The positive attention and love they brought to hospice, animals, and this important therapy work is incredible.  This is one of the best books I have ever read, and I recommend it to everyone!  It is filled with dignity, grace and compassion that we all need to know exists.  Baxter truly knew what his life work was, and the love of his human parents brought it to the forefront.  I can just imagine how blessed and hollow they feel all at the same time with the loss of Baxter at this time in their lives.

I can’t even tell you how many times I have gotten so teary-eyes and choked up over this.  But I think it is because I really do understand that special bond Melissa and Dennis shared with Baxter and sharing him with others, as I do with Frankie.  It is something one must experience in order to truly know the depth of it.

So, I say a deeply heart felt congratulations to Melissa and Dennis for their beautiful work in sharing Baxter’s soul work with the world.  One of my wishes when I get to heaven, is to meet Baxter, hug him close and thank him for all he did.  God Bless You always sweet little angel.