Puma

Puma is inspired by the true story of a once-unwanted shelter dog, a caring community determined to help older adults keep their beloved pets, and a deputy animal control officer honored as the 2025 Humane Law Enforcement Officer of the Year by the Humane World for Animals (formerly the Humane Society of the United States).

Written for middle-grade readers, but perfect for dog lovers of any age, this uplifting story follows a courageous shelter dog as she discovers her special gift and works alongside her best friend and a team of dedicated animal control officers.

More than anything, Puma longs to belong. She knows what it feels like to be left out, misunderstood, and unsure of where she fits. When her dream of finding a forever home finally comes true, Puma and Captain Mike go to school, and they eventually train to become a first responder therapy dog team. Along the way, Puma discovers that helping others also heals her own heart.

On Puma's adventure, readers will experience:

• The journey of adopting a shelter dog

• The challenges and joys of training for first responder therapy dog work

• Real-life efforts to support seniors who struggle to care for both themselves and their beloved pets

• A heartfelt look at the human-animal bond

• The meaningful ways dogs serve, comfort, and strengthen communities.

This heartwarming story speaks to readers who understand wanting to belong, facing moments of bullying or self-doubt, and learning to choose bravery, kindness, and hope. With her wagging tail and growing confidence, Puma's story gently reminds us that heroes come in many forms-and sometimes they walk on four paws.

Award-winning author Gail Scoates draws from her work with therapy dogs and as a home care nurse, where she cared for patients who often insisted their beloved pets be checked before their own health was addressed. Those moments revealed how profoundly animals provide comfort, stability, and purpose, especially for older adults. That life experience inspired the heart behind Puma.