October is here and with it brings memories of the day we were able to #adopt #Hogan into our family and bring him from the humane society to his #forever home. He was so thin and timid and my heart ached with the knowledge that he must have been hungry much too often. As he and I rode together he watched every passing car and truck with great interest and curiosity. Being a rainy day his head moved back and forth in rhythm with the windshield wipers; and I remember that it brought a big smile to my face. From time to time a large truck would pass by sending a pounding spray of water against the passenger's side window causing him to duck down into the seat. I reached over to gently reassure him and wondered how many times he had traveled in a car.

As work on his book, Hogan's Hope, continues I am often asked why do I want to write and publish his story. The response seems quite evident to me but I must keep in mind that many people do not know the obstacles that a #deaf #dog encounters. I want people to know that when deaf dogs are often destroyed, mistreated, or abandoned, Hogan’s Hope tells the tale of a legendary deaf canine hero who went from hardship to success. He went from abandonment to a life of being accepted, believed in, and loved so very much. I also want folks to realize that, no matter what challenge, handicap, or disability we face, there is always hope. There is always the real possibility of our dreams coming true and #Hogan provides great inspiration. And, perhaps most importantly, there is always the chance for genuine love and acceptance.

“'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11