Mobile Man Pens New Book Chronicling His Former Prison Dog’s Journey to Therapy Work
Mobile resident Morris King has written a new book, "Vaquito's Voyage," telling the story of his Labrador retriever's path from a California prison training program to therapy work in Mobile.
A black Labrador retriever named Vaquito has gone from training inside a California prison to working as a therapy dog in Mobile, and now his story is the subject of a new book. Mobile resident Morris King adopted Vaquito last year and says the dog’s path to becoming a therapy animal was too remarkable not to share.
Vaquito was trained by an inmate through Guide Dogs of America, an organization that places dogs in prison programs and teaches inmates how to train them for future service work. The book, titled “Vaquito’s Voyage,” follows the dog’s journey from his time in the prison program to his new home in Mobile.
According to its description, “Vaquito’s Voyage is an inspiring true story about a Labrador Retriever determined to become a service dog. From his first days as a puppy to his final assignment, Vaquito embraces change, faces new people and challenges, and keeps moving forward with purpose, courage, and faith.” The book adds that the dog “travels across the country, discovers his mission, and proudly serves others,” and has become a favorite among children and adults alike.
King said he feels fortunate to have Vaquito in his life and believes the dog carries a special gift for helping people. “These animals are trained for service. They act as a social bridge for so many people. Vaquito has a skill set,” King said. “He could have gone to a veteran with PTSD. He could have gone to an autistic child. So, just very rewarding working with him and watching how he helps people with his skill set.”
“Vaquito’s Voyage” is the second book King has written about a therapy dog. His first, “Millie and Mo Dream Big,” told the story of his previous therapy dog, Millie, who passed away a few months ago.
About the Program
Guide Dogs of America, founded in 1948 and based in Sylmar, California, breeds, raises and trains guide dogs for people who are blind or visually impaired, as well as service dogs for veterans and children with autism. The organization also operates a prison-based training program, in which incarcerated handlers help train its dogs.
