Tails of Joy: Stories of Special Needs Animals and the People Who Adopted Them

Gretchen Dale has given us a wonderful book, which tugs at the hearts of animal lovers on several levels. At the highest level it warms us with stories of special animals that have been rescued from their issues and found forever homes. On another level, however, it is a reminder to us all of a sad truth. That is, that most not-for-profit shelters simply cannot afford the resources or time to rehabilitate animals with special needs. However compassionate they may be, they must rely on maximum throughput with minimum expenditure to remain viable and save the greater number of furry souls. They look to angels, like Gretchen, fosterers, and adopters who are willing to take in these special animals. Consider this the next time you stroll into a shelter looking for the "perfect pet." Special goes both ways!

Gretchen Dale’s book immediately leads you down a rare path, chosen by few, yet experienced by many at some point in life: Special Needs. Whether we’re raising children, caring for an older friend or relative or adopting a pet, “Tails of Joy” reminds us of the boundless satisfaction of shared journeys. Her photos and back-story wit reveal just what propels the folks who make that extra commitment and the life-altering impact on the animals they embrace. “Tails of Joy” is a heartwarming tale indeed and a great reminder that hard-to-adopt, cast aside dogs and cats transform lives through love, joy, humor and boundless friendship. I highly recommend this book!

Terrific book!!!!!!! Heartfelt stories of the willingness to put in the extra work to find homes for special-needs animals. Not only giving credit to those who put in all the effort to help these animals and their challenges but to give kudos to those special families who have opened their homes and hearts to them. I definitely recommend this book for your own coffee table and for gifts this holiday season!!!

This is one of those books that you pick up and don't put down until you get to the end. These pets seem to come to life and the reader gets to see clearly how animals enrich our lives. The way Gretchen describes how they touched her life and the lives of their owners is truly endearing. I smiled and cried a little through the entire story.

This book is a little GEM.....What some people may see as imperfect pets, these adoptive "pet parents" see as the perfect addition to their families.The heartfelt "tails" of these pets and the people who chose to adopt them is a joy to read. And the photos are adorable!

What a wonderful, well written book. The stories are so very heart warming....must sit down with tissues. This was a gift to myself as well as family and friends. My sister has also purchased it for her book club! Thank you, Gretchen Dale!

Written from the heart. A wonderful book that you will read from cover to cover the day you receive it. Loved the stories... felt like I was right there beside these wonderful animals and the people who loved them.

At the times in your life when you start to feel sorry for yourself, pick up "Tales of Joy" and remember where you can find real joy.