"Until one has experienced the love of an animal,

A part of one's soul remains unawakened."

Anatole France

I have just received the gratifying news

That my latest book, Through Katrina’s Eyes

Received the 2006 Merial Human-Animal Bond Award

For me this truly was a wonderful early Holiday surprise

This writing award is sponsored by the Merial Corporation each year

In the International Cat Writers’ Association Communications Contest

Presented to the entry that best reflects the bond between animal and man

And every ‘left behind’ pet that I came in contact with to me was the very best

The Merial Corporation is a world leading animal health care company

Their website provides tips for maintaining our pets’ health and welfare

And their award money will allow me to help other dogs and cats in need

There are thousands and thousands of abandoned and homeless pets out there

If each and every one of us can somehow find the time

To assist at least one homeless pet during the Holidays

We can all make this world a much better place for them

Animals truly do enrich our lives in so many different ways

They bring comfort and unconditional love to our lives

They are steadfast friends that we can always confide in

They lovingly greet us at the end of a very long hard day

And they diligently guard our loved ones to the very end

Their therapeutic and nurturing spirits

And their fervent love and fierce loyalty

 Are priceless gifts given selflessly by them

To we human beings - all year long - for free

Please Include Homeless Animals

In This the Holiday Season of Giving

"What greater gift than the love of a pet?”

 Charles Dickens