Though we may be well familiar with dogs as being wonderful pets and our best friends, our canine companions are also powerful teachers and loving guides. The Life of Tapa -- one woman's journey with her Blue Heeler dog reveals these truths in a heart-warming and heart breaking story of Tapa's sudden, fatal illness. The author addresses the ups and downs of traditional veterinary medicine, the hope of homeopathy, the growing problem of acute canine kidney disease and its challenges. She also addresses the problems with corporate dog foods and proposes more ideal diets for healthier and happier dogs. This book portrays a deep soul connection between two warriors; a woman battling loss and betrayal in her personal life, and a dog battling her role as protector and loyal companion in the face of death. The two are bonded forever not only by the incredible adventures they shared in life but by the one cosmic and universal force which permeates all life and all living creatures -- pure love.
Annie Horkan grew up on a large farm nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, and graduated from the University of Virginia with a B.A. in Fine Art. She is a prolific artist of colorful, illuminating paintings as well as hand-painted canvas rugs called floorcloths. As an artist, she has owned and run three galleries, exhibited in numerous one woman and group shows nationally and internationally and her artwork has been published in various well-known magazines and books. Her artwork can be viewed at StudioBlissArt.com and Floorcloths.com. Besides being an artist, writer and dog lover, Horkan is a strong advocate for the environment, and humanity's sentient awareness as a means to heal ourselves and our planet. Her forthcoming book, Shells From The Mountain, A Journey Around the Mandala of Life, weaves her sensitive insights through stories and travel adventures into a meaningful tapestry. After living for sixteen years in the high desert of New Mexico, Horkan currently resides in Miami, Florida. The author also invites you to visit the website, BlueHeelerDog.org, built in honor of Tapa where you can share photos and stories of you own Blue Heeler dog as well as join her Blue Heelers Facebook Fan Page at