Dog Days

An inspiring story about a young girl, Zahara, overcoming her fear of dogs.Zahara loves to visit her family on a beautiful island in the Pacific Northwest. But this year, she is met with a big surprise. Aunt JoJo got a new dog, Rugby! Zahara used to like dogs, until one chased her home from school.Over the summer, Aunt JoJo slowly introduces Zahara to Rugby, and a trusting relationship develops.Children and adults will love to join Zahara as she explores her curiosity of dogs and learns just how much our furry friends can teach us about ourselves.

JoAnne graduated from the University of Washington with a Master’s degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology (MSPA CCC-SP) in 1979. She is a practicing Speech and Language Pathologist and has worked in the public schools and her private practice for over 30 years. As a Speech and Language Pathologist she has helped many children face and overcome their fears. JoAnne’s grandfather was a country veterinarian. Her mother accompanied him on rural barn calls gaining a wealth of experiences and knowledge about animals.

JoAnne’s mother passed her love of furry creatures on to her own seven children who all developed a love and respect for animals. Growing up in Washington State, JoAnne’s backyard was like a barnyard filled with dogs, rabbits, ducks, geese, chickens and even a horse. Family dogs were varied: spaniels, retrievers, hounds, and mutts, many rescued from local humane shelters. JoAnne lives on Bainbridge Island, on the coast of Washington State, with her husband, Murray, and dog, Finley. Her niece, Zahara, visits Bainbridge Island every summer.