Debbie Burns is a best-selling author who writes happily-ever-afters for her stories’ two- and four-legged stars. While her books have earned many awards and commendations, her favorite praise is from readers who’ve been inspired to adopt a pet in need from their local shelter.
Debbie lives in Saint Louis with her family, two thoroughly spoiled rescue dogs, and a ridiculously grumpy Maine Coon cat who (most) everyone loves anyway. Her hobbies include hiking in the Missouri woods, attempting to grow the perfect tomato, birdwatching, and daydreaming, which of course always leads to new story ideas.
You can also find her on Instagram (@_debbieburns) and on Facebook and Pintrest (@authordebbieburns ).
Meet Hazel and Nala
Hazel
I find daily inspiration from my family’s two rescue dogs, Hazel and Nala. As a puppy, Hazel was found in a trash bag along with eight of her siblings on the side of a road. Luckily, a concerned man noticed the wiggling bag and took immediate action. Not only did he get the litter to a caring rescue organization where the puppies were treated for neglect, he adopted one of the litter as soon as it was cleared. We adopted Hazel days later. Now, almost 11, she's been a part of our family so long, my kids hardly remember a time without her.
Nala
Our younger dog, Nala, was initially surrendered to a high-kill animal control shelter at just four weeks of age. Thankfully, she was taken in by a caring rescue agency and rehabbed for adoption. It’s hard to believe now, but when we adopted her at eight weeks of age, she was scrawny and timid, and getting her to eat wasn’t easy. Now, she’s a doggie vacuum with an eternally playful nature. My family loves that she’s a constant reminder not to take life too seriously and to always make time for fun.