Dear Mark,

I just finished reading “Rescuing Sprite”. At first, I wasn’t sure I was ready to read anything that was animal related. But, my mom assured me this book would be a must read. You see, like you, we had to put our little Rusty down after 17 years and 4 months with the family. I have to say while reading your amazing story of Pepsi and Sprite, I somehow couldn’t help but to be reminded of our beloved Rusty. I never fully believed the unconditional love a sweet little four legged guy or gal could bring into my heart-not until we got Rusty.

Like your Spritey, our “Bubba” (that was his nickname) was our heart within our family. We had to let him go on 9/26/07. Apart of me, (just as you said in the book) wasn’t sure about another dog in the future. But after reading about your struggle with this, I now see opening my heart to another little come one day. The pain of losing Rusty hasn’t gotten any easier through these past months, and I am not too sure it will ever. But, the time we had with him was the most precious 17 years and 4 months of my life. I was just 15 years old when my parents welcomed him into my heart-and into their home. Even after I moved away, he was never far from me. I want to thank you Mark for writing such a touching story of your time with Sprite. It really has helped me,even through all my tears. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

From one dog lover to another, I am tearfully sorry for your loss.

Sheri from IL
P.S. I have attached a photo of our Rusty.