Author Description

How can anyone resist those eyes? Leon has a way with animals as well as a way to use them to help ease the suffering of those with long-term illness or injury. He's loved by patients and nurses alike until, that is, he's asked to drop in on reclusive old codger, Ralph Esseltine, who has a reputation of reducing health workers to tears. Instead of tears, Esseltine goads the placid Leon to anger by kicking the frisky puppy Leon has brought along as therapy. Expecting the worst, Leon submits his resignation only to discover that Esseltine has requested he visit again. What sort of revenge does the old recluse have in mind? And what of Esseltine's estranged grandson and his obnoxious boyfriend who turn up to count the family silver? Excerpt: I knew of him by reputation although I don't believe I had ever set eyes on him before that first weekend. He was as far outside my circle of friends and business dealings as I was his. I'm the town's veterinarian and, from what I'd heard, it was as likely that Esseltine would have a pet of any description as that pigs might suddenly gain the ability to become airborne. To him, animals, like humans, had to pay their way. The only good thing to be said about furred, hoofed and feathered creatures was they were good on his table at meal time. Having the emotional life of the chronically unappreciated, I spent my weekends at the local hospital cheering up long-stay and terminally ill patients. In case I've given you totally the wrong impression, I have no skills whatsoever as a stand-up comic, singer, magician, entertainer or player of a musical instrument. I'm rather shy around people. Oh, I don't dislike them, it's just I'm more comfortable around animals. It was my original idea that I bring a few of the dogs from my shelter every weekend to help cheer up the patients. It's amazing what the unconditional love of a small furry bundle yipping and frolicking around the wide expanse of lawn can do for the well-being of patients. And of