Smart Paws

Book excerpt: Smart Paws brought a warm feeling, gentleness and love, [and] knowledge of animal/bird life. There is pain, but also hope and humor. Importantly, [there is] encouragement for others to follow, without fear. ~ Helga Milberg, Dog trainer and board member of Tucson-based Handi-Dogs. A good dog will change your life When Eloise met Gamble, her first golden retriever, she befriended a gentle, generous soul who understood the art of being a healing presence. Years later, when overwhelming depression and debilitating physical challenges forever changed her lifestyle, outlook, and career, her life went to the dogs. Research about service dogs and the profound impact they can have on a life quickly became her one life-affirming activity. The partnership she envisioned would provide comfort and support by giving her new purpose, allowing her to conquer the many challenges her new life presented. A mental health counselor, artist, and animal lover, Eloise emphasizes the miraculous competencies of dogs who literally and figuratively open new doors for countless people challenged by physical or mental health problems. This is also a story about a very special dog named Rusty. Through Rusty, Eloise provides useful information for others interested in bringing a service animal into their lives. Eloise and Rusty explore how dogs have responded to our changing needs from prehistoric times to the present. Eloises lifelong experiences with animals and her study of the human-dog bond, including research into the evolution of the dog and their special intelligence, are candidly reflected in her tales about pets and partners.