On December 14, 2011, my parents and I stopped at a local shelter and rescued J’mee—a scruffy white Terrier mix. She is not my family’s first rescue dog, nor will she be our last. Yet, she got me thinking, “What if?” Could I connect the world of rescue using images and stories of success to drive change in the public’s perception of rescue dogs? Watching J’mee change from a worried, confused little gal into a confident, wonderfully silly, loving companion was the catalyst, the inspiration that turned stories and images into messages of hope.

      I have tried to capture the unique life and personality within each dog, the soul inside the endless contrasts of breed, size, personality, scars, scruffy coats, and experiences these dogs have encountered over the years that they have been loved, lost, abandoned, abused, surrendered, or, in some cases, forgotten.

      I have tried, as much as possible, to pare away the more shocking details and instead focus on unleashing the true essence of each dog, as well as their typical and sometimes unique training challenges. Each of these dogs is incredible in his or her own way, as are their owners. I’m so thankful to have had the lucky privilege to meet them, to spend time with them, and to have the opportunity to share their ridiculously cute, quirky personalities and stories of success. They make my heart sing, make me giggle, and make me cry happy tears for having been lucky enough to meet them.

      Hats off and a million thanks to the owners who shared their dogs’ stories so I could bring them to all of you.

      I dedicate this book to the shelter dogs who waited patiently for their permanent homes, and to those who continue to wait. To the dogs who make our lives worth living. The dogs who hunt, herd, retrieve, catch Frisbees, chase balls, and swim. To the dogs who warm our hearts, make us grin from ear to ear, remind us of the beauty of love, and fill our lives with purpose and passion.

      Introduction

      The fact that you’re reading this book probably means that you have adopted—or intend to adopt—a shelter/rescue dog. That, in turn, means your life is about to change for the better!

      Dogs demand a lot of attention—some more so than others, depending on their breed, history, temperament, and personality. Yet dogs pay us back with an endless range of benefits. The obvious perks include companionship and lower blood pressure, but what about the silliness that is so contagious it practically oozes out of some dogs’ fur? Do you ever want to break out in a happy dance at your dog’s pure happiness? Maybe gazing at his goofy, lovable face makes you grin uncontrollably from ear to ear? What about the wiggly dog who cheers up even the crummiest of days? And don’t forget the dog who makes you cry happy tears for being nothing short of perfect. These magic moments are what make loving dogs super special. Unbreakable bonds between dogs and owners are created in these moments, and they make being in the company of dogs a blessing.

      Although dogs are incredible creatures, giving you the impression that it’s all clear sailing ahead would be disingenuous. Sure, your dog will make you laugh harder than you ever imagined, but he may also potty on your best carpet, commit heinous crimes against your personal property, refuse to come when called, and embarrass you in front of your in-laws. (If you were looking to avoid public humiliation, you should have considered a cat!)

      My primary motive for writing this book is to share with you the amazing journey of twelve shelter dogs who were facing uncertain futures. Yet through the love and dedication of their equally remarkable owners, as well as plenty of committed volunteers who saw past their often sad, sunken exterior, these dogs are now living a life of endless kisses, cuddles, and love. Some, like Lily Bella, Queso, and Casey, have gone on to be perfect hiking, jogging, camping, or horse backing riding companions. Others, like Kota and Levi have excelled in canine sports. All of them were at one time discarded, lost, or abandoned, yet they have become treasured companions in the eyes of their owners.

      So what will you find in this book? In addition to the personal journey of these twelve remarkable rescue dogs, you will find lots of material that will help you to build a mutually respectful and loving human-canine relationship (because everything about dog training comes down to the relationship you have with your dog). You will learn about the “transition period”—that period of time, which can be a few days, weeks, or months—when your dog may be nervous, anxious, fearful, and really not himself as he adjusts to his new home. You’ll learn the benefits of interactive play and how to use it to build confidence and enthusiasm and instill desired behaviors or to physically and mentally burn excess energy and tire out a high-energy dog. You will also learn how to teach basic obedience commands and fun tricks, as well as to problem solve solutions.

      I hope you will also learn to look at your own emotions and traits to determine your behavior, which has a huge impact