Ginger's Gift: Hope & Healing Through Dog Companionship

Hope and healing through dog companionship is an idea every dog lover can understand. If you have ever had a physical or emotional problem, you know that your dog will be there for you until you are well again. Dogs focus on and tune in to every feeling you have. Their unconditional love is a strong positive force to help a person heal. The Linn-Gust's were to learn how true this was in their lives. When Chaco, a charmingly neurotic mutt, came to live with them he was the first of many dogs who gravitated to the warmth of their home. Shortly after Chaco's arrival, Joe suffered a traumatic brain injury when a drunk driver smashed into his truck. They continued to find dogs whether Michelle was running a road race or Joe was doing relief work after Hurricane Katrina. Soon their family grew to four dogs, the maximum number allowed in Albuquerque where they live. This didn't stop the dogs from finding them, though. Michelle decided her mother needed a dog and set out to get her one as a surprise Christmas present. She found the perfect yellow Labrador retriever at Albuquerque's West Side shelter. Michelle's father died before Ginger, the dog of the book's title, could make the trip to her forever home in Naperville, IL. Ginger's role quickly changed from dog companion to friend, listener and confidant. She helped heal through her love, silliness and doggy kisses. Her generous love helped Michelle's mother make the transition after her husband died. This book is a good read for anyone who loves dogs or who knows that a dog's unconditional love helps a person heal. - N. Marano

A dog is more than a companion; it can be a healer. "Ginger's Gift: Hope and Healing Through Dog Companionship" is a look at the value of man's best friend in overcoming the challenges that humanity faces. The unwavering loyalty of dogs, their playfulness even in the worst situations can inspire people to keep their own chin held high even when they have no reason to do so otherwise. "Ginger's Gift" is a treasure for dog owners, and for consideration for those on the fences on letting a dog into their lives.

Anyone who loves dogs, and any dog lover who's had their furry friend carry them through hard times, knows there's a great deal of truth in the phrase Man's Best Friend. Underneath all the fur of your loyal canine companion beats a heart with an uncanny ability to love unconditionally and, in doing so, teach our fragile human hearts how to heal. I highly recommend you get a copy for every dog you know. I know, dogs can't read, but the human being on the other end of the leash can, and will thank you for making a gift of "Ginger's Gift" and honoring the joy that only dog companionship can bring.