Josie's Story

JOSIE'S STORY


Josie at the bank - Story writer in Bradley, ME
A few years ago I was a young pup, very cute and sweet, and full of lots of energy. Life in my eyes was fun, fun, fun! The original family who bought me and brought me home soon learned that puppies are a lot of work. Bewildered, they gave me no direction or real training other than frustration. Eventually, they surrendered me to a rescue group. After that my life changed...

Unfortunately many puppies and dogs, as well as other animals, find themselves in similar situations. There are many, many reasons that we end up abandoned, lost, or abused. Approximately 6.5 million of us end up in shelters or rescue groups. The lucky ones get good homes. I am one of those…

FROM RESCUE TO SERVICE DOG

A few years ago I was a young pup, very cute and sweet, and full of lots of energy. Life in my eyes was fun, fun, fun! The original family who bought me and brought me home soon learned that puppies are a lot of work. Bewildered, they gave me no direction or real training other than frustration. Eventually, they surrendered me to a rescue group. After that my life changed...

Unfortunately many puppies and dogs, as well as other animals, find themselves in similar situations. There are many, many reasons that we end up abandoned, lost, or abused. Approximately 6.5 million of us end up in shelters or rescue groups. The lucky ones get good homes. I am one of those…

I write to reach the many, many families who are thinking of adopting or have brought one of us home. I use my life story to inspire and provide understanding for families in the importance of human leadership, trust, bonding, training, and direction, as well as love, that we all crave and need. Don't hesitate to seek help and training for both of us – human and dog. There are so many resources available. Don't let us down. Learn to speak “dog” and be a good leader! We will become the best of friends and a devoted companion…
Josie in the garden - Story writer in Bradley, ME  Image
Josie with her bowl - Story writer in Bradley, ME
Josie in lake - Story writer in Bradley, ME
My book is a fun, easy read for the whole family and for all who love dogs. Mom says that it is for ages 5 – 105 and everyone in-between! In my book I say:

“I write my story to remind dog families that, although we are sweet and adorable – and I am sweet and adorable – we are not toys or humans. We are dogs. We require training, and, even though I did not want it at first and even fought against it, I have learned the importance of receiving and following direction and leadership. I am a much better dog for it. Mom and Uncle Bob are proud of me, and I, in turn, enjoy pleasing them.”

Mom (Vernita Leins) has three chapters at the end of my book. She talks about the difference between a therapy dog and a service dog. She also shares important information about consistency and responsible dog parenting so any family can have a dog as sweet and well-mannered as me!


Josie's Story is available at your local bookstore or to order online from the publisher, click here!

Josie's snowy tree - Story writer in Bradley, ME
Vernita and Josie - Story writer in Bradley, ME
Josie at grocery store - Story writer in Bradley, ME
A portion of the proceeds is donated to shelters, rescue groups, and dogs in need.

If you have a shelter or rescue group in your community that is willing to sell books, ask them to order my book from the publisher to carry on their shelves to help educate new pet owners about the importance of training, consistency, exercise, and responsible dog parenting.

My vet, Mark Hanks, DVM, Kindred Spirits Veterinary Clinic, Orrington, Maine writes in his endorsement of my book:

“Josie's Story is a wonderful first ‘person' account of what it is like to be a support dog. A natural therapy dog from the very beginning, Josie explores that special connection between humans and pets from a unique perspective. After nearly 30 years as a veterinarian, I can recommend anyone considering bringing a dog into their life read this captivating book.”

My service dog trainer, Dr. Jessica Treworgy, (retired) DVM, DVSc PhD Dog Psychology, President, Ambassador Assistance K9's International® writes in her endorsement:

“Josie's Story reminds me of my now-gone sweet St. Bernard. I am so proud of Josie finding her words, and for being so willing to understand ‘human' when it really counts. Her story is particularly sweet because she serves to remind us all that much more lies beneath the cover (fur).”
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