Losing Your Daemon - Sharon Tregenza

Recently my dog died and it hurts a lot. He had been a constant companion, padding beside me upstairs and down and in and out of every room. While I worked, he waited patiently in his basket next to my desk. He was the truest friend, and the inspiration behind Tia the beleaguered Yorkie in The Shiver Stone. So forgive the indulgence - today, as a small tribute, I give you 'writers and their dogs'...

First up - staff at a small Scottish dog rescue centre were surprised when a certain J K Rowling showed up with her family, including their Jack Russell terrier, Butch. The entire clan fell in love with, and adopted, a four year old greyhound named Sapphire.

Roald Dahl was another dog fan. He’s seen here with Cookie and Amber. They also figured in his work. There’s a gorgeous poem he wrote called 'Puppy and Me'.

Dr Seuss created many mythical creatures and in real life was a true dog lover. He also  

championed many dog-related charities.

Dr. Seuss (1904-1991) Theodor Seuss Geisel — seen here with his Irish setter Cluny beside his pool in La Jolla, California

Paws and Whiskers is a special anthology of the very best stories about cats and dogs from the world of children’s literature, chosen by Battersea Cats and Dogs Home patron Jacqueline Wilson.

                          

It’s a collection to enjoy and share for many years. For every copy sold, a significant donation will be made to Battersea Cats and Dogs Home.

Francesca Simon says:  This book is very special to me because it includes a piece about Shanti, my 

wonderful Tibetan spaniel, who very sadly died last autumn. That’s Shanti on the cover, in the 

bottom right hand corner!

It seems as though pets attach themselves to writers; most authors I know have a dog or a cat. Maybe it’s the attraction of a constant, non-critical, listener to bounce ideas off.  Whatever the reason, dogs and authors have a long and loving tradition.

R.I.P.

Reilly

The world is a sadder, darker place without my daemon.

Sharon Tregenza: www.sharontregenza.com

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