Duane Hicks
A district resident’s personal story of adopting a rescue dog recently was published as a book, making for an ideal gift for the animal-lover this holiday season.
“Jack the Husky Gets Rescued,” written and illustrated by Emo resident Shannon Carlson, is about an adopted Husky named “Jack” and the journey he and his owner take getting to know each other.
“I have wanted to tell Jack’s adoption story for a long time,” said Carlson, who is a published author and poet, as well as a landscape painter and muralist.
“I got ill shortly after rescuing Jack and despite the challenges I faced, I promised him that I wouldn’t send him back to the shelter,” she noted.
“He’s probably taught me more than I’ve taught him,” Carlson added.
“And like all dogs, he has a funny and unique personality.”
She knew that if Jack could teach her “patience, perseverance, and how to enjoy the little things,” then perhaps others could learn, too.
“He lifts my spirits daily and that is priceless,” Carlson remarked.
“All of the challenges that come with dog ownership never outweigh the benefits.”
Carlson said the book was written for pet fans of every age.
“My intended audience is children aged 10-12 years old,” she noted. “However, I think people of all ages can enjoy my book.
“Anyone who has adopted a dog can relate.”
The book introduces the reader to “some adventures that may be familiar, and emphasizes the importance of patience and perseverance,” Carlson explained.
“Dogs are more than pets, they are family members,” she stressed.
When asked about the artwork, Carlson replied, “I specifically wanted to have bright and cheery illustrations to reflect the joy that comes with getting a new pet.”
While this is her first children’s book, it definitely won’t be her last.
“The book publishing process was wonderful,” she enthused. “It was a lot of work but it was very rewarding to see my creative vision come to life.
“I recently finished the next book in the series, which should be available in the spring of 2018.”
Carlson urged all potential pet owners to consider rescuing a dog–and appreciate their dogs they already may own.
“I hope that this book encourages people to truly welcome dogs into their home, hair and all,” she quipped.
“It takes work to own a pet, especially a dog,” she added.
“Dogs don’t want to be locked alone in pens. They want to play and go for walks.
“They want to lay next to your feet and follow you into every room in the house,” Carlson added.
“So take some time after work to give them some attention and make them part of the family.”
Speaking of family, Carlson thanked her boyfriend and family for all the help they’ve given to her in watching Jack when she needed help during the past few years, and for providing their support and inspiration for this book.
Part of each book sale will be donated to animal assistance programs and shelters.
“Without these dedicated people, there would be a lot of pets suffering,” Carlson said.
The book is available locally at Northwoods Gallery & Gifts, Pharmasave, the Nor-West Animal Clinic, and Emo Drugs, as well as in stores across Ontario.
“I have had the assistance of friends and colleagues to help distribute my book throughout Ontario,” Carlson noted.
“There are so many people who share my passion for helping dogs that I didn’t have to look far to find help.”
“Jack the Husky Gets Rescued” also is available online in paperback and ebook formats at Amazon.ca and Chapters.Indigo.ca, but Carlson encouraged everyone to shop locally if possible.
