Dr. Ross Gordon Cooper

A Three-legged Dog Called Present Dr. Ross Gordon Cooper

Present was born in 1975 in a picturesque part of Rhodesia on a farm in the Eastern Border Districts. His rear right leg was injured and his life was saved by a vet who wanted to give Present as a gift to his son for Christmas. This hand-illustrated story, suitable for the teenager reader, describes Present's life in Chipinga and later in Harare, Zimbabwe. It provides a comprehensive account of his behaviour, play, interaction, truants and ends with his illness and death. Glimpses of the incredibly rich flora and fauna of Zimbabwe are described. The book emphasises the need to take care of dogs and to prevent their abuse and mistreatment. If a dog is taken care of it will rewards its owner with true companionship, dedication and loyalty for life. Dogs are extremely adaptable and despite Present's weaker leg, he did not let it interfere with his daily activities and he could run like the wind. Present was a courageous soldier. May he rest in peace!