Like many dog lovers, Gary Shiebler had one dog against which he judged all others: Rusty, a stray shepherd/collie mix the Shiebler family adopted when Gary was a boy. Rusty was the "perfect" dog, not only because he was well mannered, a loyal companion, and a brave protector, but also because he came to represent for the author all the happiness, simplicity, and innocence of youth. Rusty's death fifteen years later left a hole in Shiebler's life - and set him off on a search for another perfect dog.Here is a moving, irresistible celebration of the dogs that have touched Shiebler's life - from the strays his mother took in during his childhood to the myriad hounds he has owned as an adult and cared for as an animal shelter educator. Writing with deep feeling and frequent humor, Shiebler vividly evokes the joys, responsibilities, and heartbreaks of the human-canine relationship. At the same time, he leads us on an inspiring journey of understanding and acceptance. For as he faces the challenges that each dog brings, he learns valuable lessons not only about being humane, but also about being human. Read Less