Darby's Story The Life of an Adopted Dog

By Martha Steward

Darby found himself in the city pound waiting a certain fate. When a local rescue dog group saved him, and placed Darby in a foster home. For several months Darby’s hopes were, a family would adopt him. Christmas was just around the corner. While Darby waited, a single mother and a six year old boy wanted a special family gift for Christmas.

The book is simply written with adopted pets dealing with blended family issues. The content can be appreciated by adults as well as children.Darby's story encourages pet adoption while helping child and families share the journey of love and devotion.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Martha Steward
• Release date: Oct 5, 2011
• ISBN: 9781465713629

Martha Steward

Martha Steward wrote her first book, "Darby's Story the Life of an Adopted Dog", A Mom's Choice Awards Silver Recipient for best book on Animal & Pet Care for family & children reading. An Inspiring story of love and devotion based on a rescue dog waiting in foster care for his Forever Home. When just before Christmas a single mother and a young boy receive the best gift of all, Darby. Martha continues to write her stories to inspire pet adoptions, help parents and children with the challenges of a blended family, and funny tales of family adventures with colorful photos. Bangle Bear is the second book in the series a Spring 2011 release. Laugh with Bangle Bear, read how this tailess cat teaches her human pets when second breakfast is, where her favorite places to nap are, and every day brings wonderful gifts. Gifts that teach you what it takes to be all you can be.

Book preview

Darby Story

The Life of an Adopted Dog

By

Martha Steward

SMASHWORDS EDITION

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Darby’s Story:

The Life of an Adopted Dog

Copyright © 2011 by Martha Steward

Smashwords Edition License Notes

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Darby’s Story:

The Life of an Adopted Dog

Chapter 1

The Best Christmas Present

A few weeks prior to Christmas, Drew and I thought about a special addition to our family. Drew, my son, was then six years old—old enough to help care for a dog, keeping it well groomed and making sure it had enough food, water, and exercise.

We asked a friend who worked with the dog rescue programs in our local area, when the next visiting day would be. We learned the rescue program offered several days each month for the public to meet the dogs that were ready for adoption. We set our calendar for the big day.

The day arrived, and that evening, we were ready and excited.

Drew, let’s go pick out a rescue dog at the local store.

Yes, Mum! Drew yelled as he took off down the hallway to get his shoes.

This was going to be our special Christmas present to each other: a new member of the family.

Drew and I arrived at a local pet store chain. We walked in through the sliding doors and were amazed at how many dogs were there. First, we walked around, looking at the wonderful dogs. They were from the local pound, and some were strays, while others where dropped off. All needed good homes with lots of love. The store smelled fresh and clean. The cages the dogs rested in were well maintained, and each had a bowl of water and a toy or chewy.

Drew and I met several types of dogs—big dogs like the Great Dane and small ones like the Yorkshire Terrier. The handlers walked the available dogs around, showing off how well mannered and friendly the dogs were. The dogs listened well to the commands to sit, stay, and come, and some even shook hands. But none seemed to really fit our family needs. Some of the dogs had too much energy, or the breed of dog was not suitable because it was either too big or too small. One of our preferences was for a quiet dog that did not bark very much. Age was important, because a puppy would require more work than an older dog. We needed a dog that was past the puppy stage, yet still young enough to adapt to our young family lifestyle. Our backyard had shade and a doggy door, so we would not have to

Reviews for Darby's Story The Life of an Adopted Dog

[allizabeth · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Review: Darby's Story: The Life of an Adopted Dog is an encouraging and educational tribute to Martha Steward's canine best friend - Darby - a quiet, loving, sable-red rescue pup. After one page, I was already in adoration of the thirty-two page children's book, taking in the entertaining true-life stories and full-color photos of Darby doing what he loved to do! Darby was very lucky to be adopted by such a loving family, and Steward made it clear that he was more than just a dog, he was a genuine member of the family, and was treated as such. Stories like this never fail to capture the hearts and attentions of kids and adults alike. Possible pet owners, and those curious about the responsibilities of pet ownership, will definitely get a taste of what caring for/ adopting an animal is all about. The reading level is more moderate than a typical children's book, filled with challenging vocabulary and separate chapters, (seven of them), but what child can resist the handsome and loyal dog displayed on the bright yellow front cover? I know I couldn't! I can tell that the author is very passionate about her animals and about shelter rescue/ adoption programs, and I admire her for trying to make a difference in the lives of sheltered animals and their future owners. Overall, I loved the book and its humorous and heartwarming stories, as well as Steward's campaign for shelter rescue. I recommend this book for all ages!Rating: Clean Getaway (5/5)