Telling America’s stories through its dogs

Via PR Newswire - Every summer, the website America Comes Alive celebrates the "Dog Days of Summer" with three true stories of American dogs each week for eight weeks, from service dogs and military dogs to President's dogs and dogs in show business.

"True stories about dogs have been a great way to open a window on America's past," says Kate Kelly, author and historian, who runs the website which is dedicated to little-known stories of American history

"During World War II, our military had no canine corps. Sacrifice by Americans takes on a whole new meaning when you learn that the American public responded to the government's request for help by donating their pets. These family dogs—several thousand of them—were the beginning of what has become our very important canine corps today."

Kelly continues: "The first seeing-eye dog was not introduced to the U.S. until 1929. If you hear how Morris Frank, a young man who was visually impaired, devoted his entire life to make certain his dog was accepted in public places, you gain a whole new understanding when you see a guide or therapy dog with someone on the street today."

Throughout July and August three new stories are posted each week. A few of the dogs that are scheduled for 2013 are a dog trained to help scientists track and find endangered species, comfort dogs who are used to calm crime victims or those testifying in court, and Abraham Lincoln's dog, Fido.

In addition, Kate has just released a new book, “You Lucky Dog! From Homeless to Famous...True Stories of Amazing American Dogs”. There are heart-warming stories about many dogs, including Toto and Benji who began life without forever homes.

Kate Kelly is the successful author of more than 35 nonfiction books. She contributes to The Huffington Post and her website www.americacomesalive.com, and monthly e-letters celebrate Kate's love of American history and America's dogs.