The Story of Penelope, by Gisele Veilleux
Arthur, an inquisitive but typical elementary school boy and his four-year old sister, are thrilled when their Mom brings home a new little puppy, Penelope. It does not take long before Penelope becomes a young adult dog. Much to their surprise, Penelope shows dominant behaviors when she tries to bite both Arthur and his little sister. Thinking that they can control the situation and distance themselves from Penelope, it gets even worse. Penelope begins to attack their other two pets who are Border Collies, and now the entire family is in harms way. How could such a cute little dog rip this family apart?
Arthur’s love for Penelope is compromised, as his family is threatened, and their lives change. While Arthur watches Penelope repeatedly attack his other dogs, he struggles to make sense of her behavior.
Even though Arthur realizes that Penelope has a serious problem, he becomes very angry when his Mom makes plans to find another home for her. As Arthur endures many sleepless nights and attempts to comfort his little sister, the family struggles to deal with their precious little dog, which has become violent.
Arthur’s mother desperately tries everything she can to keep Penelope, until that horrible day came: the day that Penelope seals her own fate and changes Arthur’s life forever. If you love animals, and have children, you must read this story.
A Special Message to Parents
The purpose of this book is to help parents talk to their kids about the emotional upset that takes place when an animal shows aggressive and dominant behaviors toward other animals or family members.
We are all optimistic when we bring a new pet into our homes, yet things don’t always work out the way we planned. Unfortunately, kids usually think it’s their fault, or they get angry with you, the parent.
If your family is struggling with an aggressive pet, the story of Penelope will facilitate communication between you and your children and allow them the freedom to express and share their emotions with you.
Arthur, a young storyteller, shares his situation with your children so they will not feel alone. More importantly, this book will help educate your children. The knowledge that they will gain by reading this book will empower them for when they become young adults, and future pet owners.
The “What Did I Learn?” section of this book provides vital information that your family should use before you chose your next pet. Also included are websites where professionals and volunteers are prepared to help you. Younger readers will find a handy dandy Glossary filled with easy-to-understand definitions to some of the words used in this book.
Click Here to Preview The Story of Penelope
