The Angel by My Side: The True Story of a Dog who Saved a Man- and a Man who Saved a DogMike Lingenfelter was ready for his life to be over. Two serious heart attacks and open-heart surgery had taken away most of the good things that he had in his life. He just didn't care anymore. His doctors still held out hope for him, however, and they kept trying to find ways to motivate him to get out of the house and exercise. Their vision was that an energetic dog on a leash might do that for Mike. And so it was that this golden retriever named Dakota, who had been rescued from death himself, came to help Mike with his rehabilitative therapy. Their relationship wasn't supposed to be anything too profound or metaphysical or scientific, but as it turns out, at the other end of the leash was much more than a dog.Dakota gave Mike back his dignity, his pride, and his life. Early on, it became evident to Mike that this wonderful 98-pound, red-haired, four-legged angel had a special gift: Dakota was a spirit guide, and it was Mike's duty to share him and the power of the human-animal bond. Dakota continually helped make miracles happen, for Mike and for others. But ultimately, as part of that journey, one more miracle was needed, as Dakota fought a courageous and dignified battle for his own life. |
Contents
Mad at the World | 1 |
Just Like Me | 11 |
The Green Rubber Frog | 17 |
Copyright | |
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Abbey airport alert angel angina attacks Animal Cancer Center animal-assisted therapy asked Assistance Dog Attar Brenda McClelland cancer chemotherapy chest clinic Cody Cody's Colorado Colorado State University Dakota Dallas Delta Society disabilities doctor eyes feel felt Fort Collins friends gave going golden retriever green frog Greg Ogilvie happen happy Harley Hay House head heart attack hope human-animal bond Huntsville Karen keep kids knew Krug Lingenfelter live looked Marjorie medication Mike morning Morning America Nancy never night okay pain patients person physical pretty ready rescue seemed service animal service dog share smile someone started story sure surgery Susan T. H. Rogers School talk tell thank therapy dog things thought took treatment trip trying tumor veterinary waiting wanted watch week wonderful x-ray