Leesburg woman writes about Hurricane Katrina’s dogs

Ten years ago, Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans and surrounding Louisiana towns and no one was left untouched, including family pets.

Donna Page of Leesburg wrote the book, “Katrina Dogs,” for children as a way to bring awareness of the need for pet adoptions.

Mrs. Page will be signing copies of the book along with one of its star characters, a border collie mix named Bernie, on Aug. 29 at the Lucky Dogs Festival hosted by the Tyler Public Library.

Bernie and his dog brother, Booger, were both rescued by the Page family and star in “Katrina Dogs.” Booger has since passed away, but Bernie travels with Mrs. Page on all her book signing gigs, which have been held as far away as New Orleans.

While her background is in architectural illustration and fine art, Mrs. Page said she has always wanted to write a children’s book.

“When my two daughters were young, I was fascinated by children’s books and their illustrations,” she said. “Being a lifelong artist, I have known for years that I wanted to do some children’s books. When Hurricane Katrina happened, I thought this book would be a good teaching tool and a good message about humanity and rescuing dogs.”

Since the book was published in May 2014, Bernie has gotten to travel and meet new friends, young and old.

“It’s been great fun. He is all about the treats,” Mrs. Page said, laughing. “He does tricks for treats anytime you ask. He thinks this is all just dandy and he doesn’t know why we didn’t do this a long time ago.”

Those interested in purchasing a copy of “Katrina Dogs,” can visit www.amazon.com or Mrs. Page’s personal website at www.cuddlemuffinbooks.com, but they will also be available for sale at the Lucky Dogs Festival in Tyler.

“I’d love for people to come to the festival. There’s going to be a pet costume contest and it’s going to be a great time,” she said. “I haven’t decided what Bernie’s going to be yet.”

Mrs. Page has served as an adjunct professor at Northeast Texas Community College and now teaches drawing classes in Winnsboro. When she became involved in the publishing world, she said she never dreamed it would be the hardest thing she’s tackled.

“It’s been quite an experience,” she said. “I didn’t think about all the work that goes into promoting, signings and marketing. I’ve met so many people and had such a great time.”

One of the best things about having the book published, Mrs. Page said, is the feedback she’s gotten from readers.

“People will walk up and tell me stories about their rescue dog,” she said. “I wrote this book to promote the idea of animal rescue and adoption to a young audience. My intent with all my books is that there’s a message and teaching within them.”

By Tori Lyle, news@campcountynow.com -- To continue reading this article, purchase the print edition of The Pittsburg Gazette or go to our online e-edition at:http://www.etypeservices.com/Pittsburg%20GazetteID315/default.aspx