Buster and Katie

by Danielle Gilbride, Blurberry Illustrations

Buster and Katie is a labor of love that honors the memory of Buster, a sassy Boston Terrier. Buster was born deaf, had a host of medical issues, and was initially deemed, by society, "undesirable" as a family pet. That is, until a little girl's love changed his life... and hers. The story of Buster and Katie proves that having one hurdle can showcase another super power, that everyone brings value to someone, and that love truly conquers all. Buster had a lasting impact on our family and we wanted his memory to live on in helping others. A portion of the proceeds of this book will be donated to Marley's Mutts Dog Rescue/Pawsitive Change Program, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Kern County, CA, dedicated to saving the lives of shelter animals. With shelters overcrowded, euthanasia is often the only solution to control the population. Lost and abandoned dogs need all of us to save them from death. Marley's Mutts(R) partners with California state prisons to select 24-30 incarcerated individuals, and 8-10 at-risk shelter dogs for each prison program cycle. Interested candidates submit an application for the program, write an essay and undergo an interview. Those chosen for the program submit to a 14 week, very challenging course work which involves weekly homework assignments and personal goals. Upon graduation, the dogs are adopted into loving homes, and get their happily ever after. Making a pawsitive and lasting impact on communities by rehabilitating souls and creating second chances using the power of the human/animal bond. That's what I want for Buster's legacy. He was a very special pup and we loved him immensely.