Don Mellon

Migrant Dog Don Mellon

"MIGRANT DOG" is a contemporary fictional story about an extraordinary herd dog and her inspiration upon the children of two families, one Mexican, one American. The contrasting life styles of the two cross border families and the exciting incidents that occur throughout the story make for a compelling read. In the first chapter Chica, the migrant dog, and the other newborn puppies are rescued from a raging barn fire by Isabella and Emilio, the children of Carlos and Regina Diaz, goat ranchers in Baja California. After Isabella's training, Chica matures into the number one herd dog at Rancho El Condor. At the same time six hundred miles north in San Diego, California, Owen and Katy Rainey are questioning their lifestyle choice in an upscale beach community. The Rainey boys, Junior and Kenny are on the wrong track. A visit from the police who are conducting an investigation into the illegal use of a firearm shake the Rainey's belief that they are raising the family in a wholesome way. To the south, Chica has developed into an extremely intelligent herd dog with remarkable endurance and bravery. Like many humans she slips into wildness for a short time, and as a result she is beset by misfortune. Lost and alone she is mistaken for a common street dog and is scheduled for the kill box. The Rainey family, trying to get their rebellious teen age boys on a path towards personal responsibility buys a small goat ranch in the hills east of San Diego. A dog comes into their lives and has a tremendous impact on how the boys begin to see the world. This wonderful addition to their family demonstrates uncanny skills at herding while setting an example of hard work, intelligence and bravery. This imagined history of an at risk dog should appeal to anyone who supports the charitable groups that love these animals and work tirelessly in finding homes for them. Hopefully you will, in some way join the efforts on their behalf.