handicapped dogs

Friends Forever: Special Needs Boy & Special Needs Dog

Posted by Barbara Techel

It is a day I will remember as pure joy for as long as I live…

Two years ago, a 3-year old little boy named Jackson was having a hard time accepting wearing a night brace on his leg because of a form of Cerebral Palsy he has. His mom found my book, “Frankie the Walk ‘N Roll Dog” and read it to him.  Almost immediately he saw the connection and said, “I have to wear my brace like Frankie!” He now refers to his brace as his “Frankie brace.”

He just turned five and his mom planned a birthday party for him. When she asked who he wanted to invite he said, “Barb and Frankie.”  Now keep in mind, Frankie and I met him when he was three, then again a year ago, but have only been with him twice. Frankie and Jackson have this amazing connection that I have a feeling only the two of them truly understand.

They live near Barrington, IL which is roughly a 3-hour trip from our home in Elkhart Lake, but when a darling little 5-year old special little boy makes such a request, it is hard to say no.  Besides, how often does one turn five?!?!  The best part is his mom decided to make it a surprise… and indeed it was.

Jackson’s mom, Dawn blind-folded him so he couldn’t see us come in.  When he and his mom knelt down, Dawn put Jackson’s hand on Frankie and said, “Who is this?”  Jackson pet Frankie’s head and said, “Frankie!”  He then could not get his blind-fold off fast enough to see his forever friend, Frankie.

So in pictures and video the wonderful event…

Frankie the Walk ‘N Roll Dog Expands on Product Line

Posted by Barbara Techel

Joyful Paw Prints Press is happy to announce our expanded product line of Frankie the Walk ‘N Roll Dog.  Frankie has inspired thousands of children and adults since 2008 to be positive and make a difference with her award-winning children’s book series,Frankie the Walk ‘N Roll Dog.

Just in time for the holiday shopping season for the fans of Frankie on your list, we now offer T-shirts, tote bags, buttons and pins!  We also offer package specials, so be sure to check out our new products page today which is located under our store tab.

A portion of proceeds will be donated to various charities and organizations that help animals with special needs.


Joyful Paw Prints Press:  Leaving loving paw prints on the hearts of readers through story.  Quality books and related gifts that celebrate the beautiful lessons our beloved pets teach us.

Frankie Helps Two Young Girls Overcome Fear of Dogs

Posted by Barbara Techel

Frankie and I are back at the Farmer’s Market again this summer in our quaint little village of Elkhart Lake.  We have a table set up displaying our books- happy to talk with others and share our passion about animals with disabilities.

Last week Saturday at our first market of the season a woman named Kristi shared with with me that her niece’s Kayle, 3 at the time and Molly, 5 at the time, met Frankie two summers ago.  At the time they were deathly afraid of dogs.  She told me how she bought Frankie’s book for them and that she had the cutest picture of Kayle looking at Frankie’s book while going through the market.  Kristi was kind enough to share the photo and I share it with you here.  I think it is absolutely priceless.  And the best part? Kayle and Molly are no longer afraid of dogs after meeting Frankie.