senior dogs

Best Christmas Gift of 2009

Posted by Barbara Techel

At my in-law’s home on Christmas Eve I gifted my three nieces and one nephew a copy of my newest book, Frankie, the Walk ‘N Roll Therapy Dog Visits Libby’s House.  Since one of the themes of the book is making a difference in your own, unique way, as Frankie does even though she is disabled, I thought I’d encourage each of them to make a difference.  They each received an extra copy of the book and  I’ve asked them to donate it.  I gave them suggestions, but also said if they came up with an idea in how to make a difference with the book, to go for it!

John comes from a large family with 5 sisters and all their significant others and four grandkids, so it can be, well let’s say, a bit loud at family gatherings (but I love it).  So amongst the remaining gift opening, loud talk and laughter, my nieces and nephews sat in the middle of the living room floor reading their new Frankie books. Tears sprang to my eyes and it was the BEST gift ever!!  So I share photos of all of them as my Best Christmas Gift of 2009.

Olive & Baci stars of “Frankie, the Walk ‘N Roll Dog”

Posted by Barbara Techel

This is a Christmas card photo I received today from Jodee and Dan of Hundenruhe Haven Senior Dog Sanctuary and Terrier Town of precious Olive and Baci.  They star in Frankie, the Walk ‘N Roll Dog book as two friends of Frankie’s that she befriended at the Farmer’s Market in Elkhart Lake several years ago.  Jodee and her husband Dan have devoted their life and much of their salaries to taking in and caring for animals that would have not otherwise had a home.  Their hearts are huge and I consider it an honor to know them.  To learn more about them you can also read an article I wrote about them.

Tribute Continues for Baxter, the World’s Oldest Therapy Dog

Posted by Barbara Techel

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.