Dolly gives paws up approval to messages in her book.
In La Jolla, California, a black poodle named Dolly is fast becoming a best-known author. No, this dog did not suddenly develop thumbs and the ability to tap out prose on a computer keyboard.
She had help – in her owner, Cathy Conheim, a psychologist who has devoted her life to helping others – including people and companion animals. A few years ago, she found and adopted an injured kitten named Henry who had to have his right front leg surgically removed.
Losing a paw gained Henry an audience. Today, Henry has more than 33,000 “paw pals” and two books to his credit. He has appeared on national television, in international magazines and been the topic of numerous radio shows. Proceeds from his books have been donated to people and pets in need.
Conheim found herself spending more time as Henry’s “official cat scribe” and having less time to take Dolly on daily walks. This once “only dog” in the household was getting less attention and feeling more jealous and alone.
At first, Conheim couldn’t understand why Dolly began to start acting up, having canine temper tantrums by barking and whining. But then, she realized that it was just Dolly’s cry to love and confusion over sharing a home with a furry sibling.
Like Conheim did with Henry, she captures Dolly’s story in a new book aptly called, What About Me? I’m Here Too! co-authored with BJ Gallagher, Conheim addresses issues affecting kids of all ages.
Among some of Dolly’s “Kibbles for Thoughts” contained in the pages of this beautifully photographed book:
- Accept Your Feelings - Everyone has happy feelings and unhappy ones. Both are OK. Having unhappy feelings does not make you bad – it makes you like everyone else.
- Ask for Help – If you need a hug, ask for it. If you need some attention, ask for it. “Help me” are words of strength, not weakness.
- Nobody’s Perfect – Sometimes the people you love will disappoint or hurt you. That doesn’t mean they don’t care about you. Try to forgive them, give them another chance, and love them just the same.
As Conheim writes at the end of the book, “Dolly’s story doesn’t end with rediscovering her own special place in her family. She has come to care about her cat “brother” and both of them are on a mission. They have dedicated themselves to raising funds so that other animals who are hurt, sick or homeless can have a chance to get well and find good homes with loving humans.”
Now, that’s true teamwork!
For more info: Learn more about the missions of Dolly and Henry by visiting the web site: www.henrysworld.org.
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