Ted,
Less than an hour ago I closed the pages on “Merle’s Door.” I’ve just now finished looking at the slide show and the photos - and can shed no more tears.  What a magnificent love story - and how lucky you and Merle were that you had so many great years together and that you knew what was right about letting him live his life out with the man who was his soul-mate.  I send love and blessings to you both - and thank you for one of the most touching books I have ever read. No sooner had I started to read it, I sent an e-mail to my group of friends (over 100) that they should buy it for themselves. I wonder how many of those who are dog-owners can handle their dogs finish as you and Merle handled his.

Most sincerely

David

Your book Merle’s door was truly touching. As a dog owner of a 14 month old Vizsla named Rally I truly understand the bond between man and his dog. We could all learn so much from a dog. Your book told a touching story of a dog and his extreme loyalty and love for his owner and the owners return of that love and loyalty. It was also educational because you did a lot of research on your theories about open space and a dogs need to make their own decisions. My two kids Steven 9 and Julia 7 love Rally but unfortunately my Wife does and never will feel the bond we have towards him. I just think some people will never understand about the incredible bond that dogs and humans could have. I wanted my kids to grow up with a dog because I believe it will make them a better adult by experiencing a dog’s love. Thank you for sharing your story with us.

Steve Bellefontaine

I finished Merle’s Door this last weekend and sobbed as if Merle had been my dog. And, why? Because he belongs to anyone who has ever had a dog. Only people who have truly bonded with a dog the way you and Merle did can understand the relationship between a person and a dog. At one point in my life, I was seeing a therapist and one thing that has always stuck with me was her response to me when I finished a question she posed during her initial questioning - “The best friend in the world is _______” My response - “A dog” . I was advised I had serious issues dealing with people and this was not a good answer. I dismissed her advice and her and have done just fine. Over the years, I have posed this same question to many and explained why. All of the dog lovers have answered as I did. Why - because there is nothing more gratifying and rewarding than loving and being loved by a dog. They are wonderful and do have souls. How could they not?
You wrote a wonderful book and I have told all of my friends about it. Well written and very well researched.
No wonder Merle chose you!!
Thank you for both a heartwarming and informative book.
Sincerely, Debbie Gillette