Free for a Day: Ollie Lets Loose. Encouraging empathy and kindness by taking a shelter dog on a field trip for a day.

At the heart of this touching narrative lies the remarkable story of Ollie, a 6-year-old dog whose spirit had been dimmed by the shadows of kennel depression. But Ollie’s fate took a heartwarming turn when a compassionate family decided to make a difference by giving him a day of freedom from life in the kennel. This book will inspire young children to consider the feelings of others and show them that they can make difference. There is no better way to help young children develop empathy than by showing kindness to animals- especially those who are victims of circumstance. Through the simple act of volunteering, the family discovered Ollie’s playful spirit buried beneath layers of sadness. Determined to share his story, they became his advocates, shedding light on his unique personality and hoping to help him find his perfect forever home. Free for a Day is a testament to the transformative power of love and the resilience of animals in the face of adversity. Join us on this unforgettable journey of hope, resilience, and the enduring bond between humans and animals. Because sometimes, all it takes is a little love to brighten the soul of another. From the author: “When I was a child, my father took me with him when he would volunteer to help our local homeless community, and for various other efforts. He had a heart of gold, and those experiences instilled an empathy and compassion in me that has remained strong well into adulthood. Don’t underestimate the impact your actions will have on your children. Additionally, as a M.Ed and a BA in Early Childhood Education, I can tell you that children naturally relate to small, helpless creatures. I always encourage children not to kill the bugs they find by sharing with them that they have all the power in their hands at that moment- they can choose to save or to hurt that creature. When we have total control over another life and choose to give our time and use our power to make their life better, that is the ultimate act of kindness.”