I had no plans to adopt a dog that day. My daughter and I were on our way to buy a Christmas tree. But the moment a frail, six-pound puppy stared up at me with his sad brown eyes, there was no turning back. In an instant, our family grew by four paws.

That was ten years ago. On that cold Black Friday at Petco, I rescued Toto from a harsh, abusive life in a rural puppy mill—but in truth, he rescued me right back. At the time, I didn’t even realize I needed saving. Looking back, I see so clearly how Toto has filled my life with new friends, immeasurable joy, and constant laughter. Now, he has even inspired a book.

Toto Finds Home: A Rescue Dog’s Tale shares our miraculous journey. How did a rescue dog named Toto end up in the lap of a writer named Oz? Was it mere coincidence or divine matchmaking? I’ll let you decide!

Since Toto’s arrival, we have shared a special bond and a deep desire to help other vulnerable pups find their forever homes. We began our mission with IndyHumane’s Mutt Strut. In 2018, Toto was crowned “Top Dog” as the event's highest fundraiser. The following year, we joined “Brebeuf’s Chief” and were awarded “Top Team.” Together, we helped raise over $25,000 for IndyHumane to give other “orphans” like Toto a second chance.

Now, our work continues with the launch of our new children's book. To "Paw it Forward," a portion of the proceeds from every copy sold is donated directly to 4 Precious Paws Low Cost Spay and Neuter Clinic—the very organization that rescued the real-life Toto a decade ago.

On May 30, Toto and I visited the 4 Precious Paws Clinic for a special book signing and adoption event. There, Toto was reunited with the dedicated staff members who saved his life ten years ago. Be on the lookout in an upcoming edition for photos and a full recap of this heartwarming event.

Will you help us “Paw it Forward”? Toto Finds Home: A Rescue Dog’s Tale is available at Amazon.com and other major book retailers.

 

Julie "Oz" Osborne and her beloved dog, Toto, have been residents of the Village of WestClay since 2011. Her unique voice, blending faith with humorous personal essays, has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul, Guideposts' Angels on Earth, and Pet Pals TV. She is the author of the children's book Toto Finds Home and the devotional Walk on Water: A 12-Week Devotional on Trust, Turbulence, and Fixing Your Eyes on Jesus. A former editor for Current Publishing in Carmel, Indiana, she invites you to follow their ongoing journey at OzandToto.com or on Instagram and Facebook @OzandToto.