Dogs, Essays 

Millions of dogs and puppies are abandoned each year, resulting in a world filled with stray dogs of all breeds and sizes. Many of these strays come to a bad end, but every now and then astray dog is found by a compassionate person--whether picked up on the street or picked out from an animal shelter--and given a second chance. Some of these dogs are lame, blind, ill, or simply unwanted. These dogs are special. And so are the people who have chosen to give them a second chance. Found dogs seem to be especially grateful, loyal, and loving. They, who have sometimes been rescued from death’s door, become beloved members of families, giving affection, companionship, and solace. They become productive members of society as service dogs, therapy dogs, and search-and-rescue dogs themselves. Observers mightsay that these dogs are lucky, but more often the people who have adopted them think that they are the lucky ones.Second Chances is full of wonderful photos and words by people who have given dogs a second chance. Celebrities from Mikhail Baryshnikov to Oscar de la Renta and everyday heroes who have found dogs of all sorts--from sleek greyhoundsto scruffy mutts--share their tales of discovery and canine-human friendship.Second Chances is a tribute to these extraordinary dogs and their people. Itis a testimony to the gift of love and salvation. And, in each case, it is difficult to say just who has saved whom. - from Amzon