About Me

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Barbara Techel is the author of the multi-award winning Frankie, the Walk ‘N Roll Dog book series. When her dachshund, Frankie, suffered a spinal injury, Barbara had her custom-fitted for a wheelchair. Frankie persevered, and Barbara realized the beautiful opportunity she had to share Frankie and give others hope and inspiration to be the best they can be. Along with sharing Frankie’s story with children, Barbara and Frankie routinely volunteer as a therapy dog team at a local hospital, senior assisted facility, and hospice community, spreading joy wherever they go.

Monday, February 16, 2009

Merial Human-Animal Bond Award


I am so excited to share this news with all of you!! My mom and I were awarded the Merial Human-Animal Bond Award by Dog Writer's Association of America for my book, Frankie, the Walk 'N Roll Dog. That was the reason why I was on vacation this past week. My mom and papa drove out to New York and I got to ride along! Whew, it was a long trip ( 14 1/2 hours!) but well worth it.

I didn't actually get to go to the awards dinner, but my mom hugged me lots when she got home. Above is a picture of my mom at the cermony. Way to go mom!!

Sunday, February 15, 2009

Why We Love Cats and Dogs

Here is a sneak peek to a PBS Special this evening. I can't wait to watch the whole show!! This sneak peek is very close to my heart.

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Rolling Dog Ranch Video

My mom and I found out about Rolling Dog Ranch after my book came out. They are a ranch in Montana that takes in disabled animals. Steve and Alyane's story is so inspirational. Check it out on their website. One of my favorite video's, which really makes my mom laugh too, is of blind Callie, who is a wiener dog like me! She does not particularly like to go outside to go to the bathroom... watch the video and see (top one)!

Remember I will be on vacation Feb. 6-14th so will not be posting! I'll be back at ya after that though!

Monday, February 2, 2009

A Question for Frankie's Mom

Question submitted by Jenesis, age 10

Do you want to get another dog or animal with wheels?

This one is for my mom to answer, so I'll turn over the keyboard to her. Heeeere's my mom....

This is a great question, Jenesis. I would love to have another dog with wheels someday. There are many who need homes because others can't care for them. As much as I'd like another one right now I have decided to wait until Frankie is not here someday. Which I hope is a very long time from now!! Frankie and I do lots of visits to schools and libraries, so I don't think it would be fair to have another one in wheels and have to leave them home. So when the time comes I do believe I will adopt another dog in wheels. I love taking care of them.

How People see Frankie

Question submitted by Thomas

Do people feel sad for you?

Sometimes at first they do. But then I twirl around in my wheelchair and bark and they see how happy I am. I think sometimes people think that just because I can't use my back legs that I feel sorry for myself. But I have never felt sorry for myself. I'm grateful my mom and dad helped me out and got me my cool wheels. I can do all the things I did just like I did before I hurt myself. Once people know that about me then if they were feeling sad, they then understand and are no longer sad.

All in a Days Work

Question submitted by Kevin, age 10

How long did it take you to learn to be an awesome, loving, caring, rolling dog?
Wow, Kevin, what a big question! Well, I tend to be a bit humble, but I believe I have always been a loving and caring dog. I just happen to meet more people now that I have wheels, so I am able to share my love and care for others even more. That makes my heart feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Being loving and kind to others is really quite easy. All you have to do is just remember to treat others like you'd like them to treat you. Arf-a-roo!

Sunday, February 1, 2009

Thank You Dachshund Delights

My good friend, Jerry Stemnock over at Dachshund Delights wrote a very nice story about my soon to be induction into the Pet Hall of Fame. Jerry continually cheers me on and supports my message by helping spread it through the wonderful Dachshund Delights website.
I am on the front page and thought you might want to check it out. There is an "exclusive scoop" at the end, so be sure and read all the way to the bottom.

While there, be sure and check out the great harnesses Hug-A-Dog makes! I have two of them and think they are so cool. My leash attaches to the D-ring on the back so I don't have any pressure on my spine. Helps me stay healthy! And the D-ring also attaches to my special strap in my doggie car seat so I am safe in the car... in case my mom takes a corner on two wheels like me!

Thanks again, Jerry! You are a cart doggies best friend. Arf-a-roo!