Born into misery in Syria, gruesomely injured in Iraq, clandestinely transferred to Lebanon, rejected by service members asking to adopt him in the US, Apollo never gives up. SAVING APOLLO is a parable for all ages about a forsaken dog who always opens his heart and turns darkness into light as he searches for a permanent home and country. While one simple animal, Apollo's experiences symbolize something larger than himself. His story offers a powerful message of hope and an upbeat remedy for despair.
As past chairperson of the Mayor's Animal Advisory Committee for the City of Philadelphia and president of the Board of Directors for the Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, VALERIE OGDEN, actress/author, was asked to greet non-commissioned war dogs flying in from Beirut, Lebanon as they were reunited with their US service owners in Philadelphia. Apollo was one of the dogs. After this Brave Heart's American dream turned into one nightmare after another, he ended up living with her permanently. Website: www.saving-apollo.com.
"Saving Apollo is a heart wrenching but uplifting story of war, courage, and hope. This gripping account of a dog's astounding adventures and survival spans continents and political chess games. Apollo, the canine hero, teaches us that persistence and the joy of life will see us through even the worst of catastrophes. The narrative highlights that incredible and very special bond between dogs and humans." -Edward G. Rendell, former Governor of Pennsylvania and former Mayor and District Attorney of Philadelphia.
"Saving Apollo is a page turner about a maltreated dog that always finds the best in any situation. It is also a warm and joyful tale about humanity coming together to save a very deserving life. This is a lesson in compassion and healing, and an inspiration for the future generation of animal rescuers." -Meredith Ayan, Executive Director, The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals International.
"A moving experience about the courage and endurance of an animal with an unstoppable will to live. Having rescued my own dog from Syria, Saving Apollo brings such engaging detail to the strength of these animals and is tough to put down." -Daniel Rindone, U.S. Army Ranger. Deployed to Syria 2017.
"Packed with its vivid characters and dramatic incidents, the book is a touching reminder that goodness can be found when you least expect it. I knew Apollo well at BETA and his spirited portrayal is deeply affecting." -Helena Hesayne, founder of Beirut for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (BETA).
"A touching tale about my remarkably heroic patient, Apollo. I wept and laughed as I read his engrossing story as he deals with the best and worst of humanity through his infinite capacity to love and thrive. The book, just like the dog, is unforgettable." -Lauren Deahl, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Specializing in surgery at Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Center (VESEC). Volunteer with animal rescue efforts.
