Barbara Techel awarded 2nd Place in True Story Contest about

Online, January 5, 2010 (Newswire.com) - Angel Animal Network often sponsors contests looking for true, inspirational stories that demonstrate the miraculous powers of animals.
In their latest contest they put out the following announcement: Has a dog(s) been there for a woman during challenging times or major events in her life? Have there been times when a dog has protected people from danger or warned them of possible danger? Has a woman and a dog teamed up to fulfill a life purpose and/or perform extraordinary acts of service?
This contest hopes to find life stories of remarkable women with dogs who are fulfilling their callings to the benefit of themselves and others. It will also focus on finding the best stories about dogs' unconditional love and acceptance. From dogs as protectors to partners in the dance of life the contest will honor a relationship that is like no other.
After Barbara's dachshund, Frankie suffered a fall on Easter Sunday in 2006 and became paralyzed, she was devastated. But watching Frankie persevere after being fitted for a doggie wheelchair, Barbara decided it was up to her to look for the blessing of why this happened to Frankie.
It was then that she realized Frankie was a beautiful example to children struggling with their own challenges. As Frankie and Barbara began going out in public, children were often fascinated by the little dog in tires wanting to know her story. Barbara realized the positive impact Frankie's story could have on children, so she wrote, Frankie, the Walk 'N Roll Dog which has won many awards. The recently released second book in the series, Frankie, the Walk 'N Roll Therapy Dog Visits Libby's House shares the story of how Frankie became a registered therapy dog and visits Libby's House, a senior assisted facility, where most patients have Alzheimer's and dementia. For Frankie's work she was awarded Wisconsin Pet Hall of Fame Companion Dog and named mascot for National Disabled Pets Day, May 3rd.
Barbara said, "When I read about this contest, I just knew I had to enter. It is because of Frankie that I found my purpose in life. Sharing her with children, as well as volunteering at a local hospice community and our local hospital, has been an incredible fulfilling and joyous journey. I can't imagine what my life would be like if not for Frankie."
Barbara's story, "The Blessing of a Wheelchair-Bound Dachshund" landed her in second place among over a hundred entries. Any contest entries, but especially those of the winners, will also be considered for possible publication in the new book Dogs and the Women Who Love Them by Allen and Linda Anderson to be published by New World Library in Fall 2010.
To learn more about Angel Animal Network you can visit them on their website at www.angelanimalsnetwork.com
Children are invited to follow Frankie, The Walk 'N Roll Dog's adventures on Frankie's Blog: www.frankiethewalknrolldog.blogspot.com/. To learn more about author, Barbara Techel, visit www.joyfulpaws.com