Learning one's cherished dog has cancer is a common experience among dog owners today. Upon diagnosis, veterinarians may suggest surgery or chemotherapy. But, our dog's cancer was too widespread for surgery, and the harshness of chemotherapy seemed inappropriate for this gentle-natured golden. Instead, we chose to celebrate the life and spirit of our beloved pet each remaining day left with him. What happened next is an adventurous true story of love and courage. Last Summer with Oscar is a narrative case study about a 9-year old Golden Retriever's response to cancer. While my husband and I came to grips with his diagnosis, Oscar made an amazing discovery. Nestled among a patch of young trees were Slippery Elm seedlings, and eating them became his choice of treatment. Oscar's determination to live enabled him to return to this patch to eat the leaves, thereby regaining his strength for continued walks with his littermate, Winston. Oscar, the teacher, found new ways to communicate with me, his student. Together, we explored little-known remedies for cancer. The goodness of the journey elicited kindness and goodness from others. Last Summer with Oscar is filled with anecdotes that inspire love and a true belief in the potential of humanity.

The purity of love from a pet to its owner comes from a deep, intuitive bond that creates a high quality relationship. Pets warm our hearts with their most wonderful ability to love, and they become much-adored family members. As owners, we hope to be able to share in all the loving over the full lifetime of the pet. However, sudden news of a serious health issue shatters the pet owner's expectancy of lifelong love and cherished attachment. It is devastating to learn our pet is ill, and the hours and days that follow are filled with overwhelming feelings of helplessness, vulnerability and grief. Owners desperately want to know how they can help their pet and may experience pressure and confusion about what they can do. I have created this workbook to offer a personal guide that will help you deal with the potential loss of your pet. Step by step, I will lead you through our journey and thereby yours. By breaking down the situation the pet owner is able to focus on the tasks that need to be accomplished, and this way the reader may gain the most from what was shared in "Last Summer with Oscar." It is my suggestion that one read Oscar's story first, then wait a day or two, and then re-read each subchapter while coordinating time spent completing the corresponding workbook pages. The workbook follows the same order of the table of contents listed in the book. The reader will find that within the workbook, each subchapter is broken down into the essential mental/physical/emotional tasks. Italicized statements found at the end of each subchapter of the book are now identified as spiritual lessons. Please read and reflect, and then write down your responses. Be gentle with yourself as there are no right or wrong answers. Everyone's journey will be a reflection of one's own uniqueness and individual set of circumstances. It is my sincere wish that this endeavor will bring warmest love to you and all who surround you and your most-beloved pet.