Book ~ "Man's Best Hero: True Stories of Great American Dogs" (2014) Ace Collins

From Goodreads ~ From Lassie to Old Yeller to Rin Tin Tin to Marley, dogs have stolen our attention and our hearts. In real life, our own pets are more than just canine companions; they are members of our family. And for some, they are heroes and brave servants. 

In "Man's Best Hero", author (and lifelong dog lover) Ace Collins provides a collection of short, dramatic stories about dogs that have gone the extra mile. Though not trained to perform heroic acts, circumstances and the remarkable bond between the dog and its owner led these animals to perform amazing feats that defy logic. Whether it is saving a drowning man, jumping in front of a truck to push a toddler to the curb, or tearing the burning clothes off a child s back, the actions presented in these stories display courage, loyalty, intelligence, and other admirable qualities of life and faith. 

These compelling portraits, told first in the words of the dog and then through exciting narrative that recounts the dog s actions, will touch reader s hearts and will leave them with a greater appreciation for their furry friends.

I love reading stories about dogs!

This book showcases 13 true stories of dogs who are heroes:

1. Opportunity - Paws in Prison partners with shelter and rescue groups to bring unwanted dogs into prisons so inmates can train them
2. Tenacity - Patches saves his owner when he falls into icy waters
3. Determination - Stubby, the most decorated war dog of World War I and the only dog to be promoted to sergeant through combat
4. Potential - Eve, a blind and deaf dog who adopts Dillon, another deaf and blind dog
5. Duty - Roselle, a guide dog who led her owner (and others) safely from the World Trade Centre Tower 1
6. Fortitude - Sadie, who dragged her owner home after he'd had a heart attack
7. Loyalty - Smoky, a war dog who served in World War II
8. Love - Dakotah and Custer, therapy dogs
9. Courage - Brandy, who protected her owner during a home invasion
10. Gratitude - Bum, who in 1910 was taken in by a homeless man and saved his life when he collapsed from an illness
11. Purpose - Chips, the most decorated war dog from World War II
12. Character - Pal (the original Lassie), who saved three men when their boat wouldn't start and they started drifting
13. Faithfulness - Lulubelle, who in 1952, thought it was her job to ensure kids crossed the street safely on their way to and from school

This is the first book I've read by this author and I enjoyed the writing style.  He did a great job telling the dog's stories.  I liked that there was a variety of stories from war heroes to everyday dogs.  It made me miss having a dog!

This is a must-read for all dog lovers!