Susan Tanner

My love for dogs has included Doberman pinschers, poodles, and every breed in between. Several years ago while stationed in Bahrain, my daughter saved a homeless puppy and brought her back to the United States. After caring for Sunshine on a short-term basis, my favorite breed soon became 'rescue' and it wasn't long before my husband and I adopted Sunshine. Soon after, I began to look for ways to be involved in the global movement to save the millions of innocent dogs who were being put down, or worse, living a life full of pain, neglect, or abuse through no fault of their own.

Enter Salty, a retired racer from Australia who is now living the life of a diva after being rescued by her own fur-ever family. I began to follow the antics of this extraordinary greyhound on Instagram and soon became inspired to write Salty's story as a children's book, in the hopes of encouraging the adoption of greyhounds by families looking for a four-legged companion.

Salt of the Earth: A Greyhound Love Story is the result of collaboration between Lucy Percival (Salty's Ma), Sophie McPike, a freelance artist and illustrator who has fostered dozens of greyhounds through Salty's own rescue group, Gumtree Greys, and me. Looking back, I believe it was all meant to be, as not only have I discovered a way to combine my love of writing with my love for rescued dogs, but I have learned firsthand how exceptionally loving greyhounds are through my volunteer work with Carolina Greys. Salty's book is the first in a series about true foster/adoption stories that will highlight the resiliency of rescued animals and their love, devotion and loyalty to those who have given them a second chance at life.

For more information on how you can be involved in the rescue of homeless animals, please visit my website at rescuedogbooks.com. To learn why Salty has captured the hearts of her fans worldwide, follow her on Instagram @thesaltyhound. To see more whimsical artwork created by the woman who brought Salty's quirkiness to life for children everywhere, visit @SophieMcPike or through her online store, Thistle be Nice, at sophiemcpike.com.