Family pet inspires just-published work

Phyllis Rugnetta, NSO affiliate president from Massachusetts, turned her grief over the loss of her beloved Sheltie named Trooper into an inspirational and educational children’s book which was recently published.

Trooper the Shetland Sheepdog is the first in a series of books designed to teach children about life’s challenges.

“The book came to life as a result of Trooper’s remaining year’s journey living with life-threatening illnesses,” said Rugnetta. “I wanted to tell his story in a simple way that children would understand and learn from.”
Trooper was thirteen when he passed away last February. He had been the family pet since he was eight weeks old.

Rugnetta’s simple story turned into an inspirational and educational lesson for children. Through Trooper’s adventures, she hopes to teach children family values and the importance of good nutrition.

“Trooper taught me so much about the importance of health, nutrition and exercise when he was ill. I can share those lessons with children through this book,” said Rugnetta.

Trooper’s story is a picture book with colorful illustrations designed to appeal to pre-school aged children. There are lessons in identifying colors and counting. A percentage of every book sold goes to various charities, including the Make a Wish Foundation, St. Jude’s and several animal rescue groups.

Rugnetta has been a one-woman wonder with this project. While she has an illustrator, she has been the writer, marketer, and bookseller. She’s also created a Web site. Go to www.troopertheshetlandsheepdog.com to read a sample of Trooper’s adventures.

What’s next? A lesson in teamwork when Trooper helps out his friend to defeat a pesky raccoon in the next book, The Adventures of Junior’s Farm and Rocky Raccoon. You don’t want to miss it.