Not every dog wants to be rescued.

When Hansen was first spotted near a truck stop in Southern Idaho, he wasn’t lost. He wasn’t looking for help. He was doing exactly what livestock guardian dogs have done for centuries: protecting his sheep.

His story captured the hearts of many people, including me.

Hansen’s journey inspired this book, but it also shines a light on the important work of livestock guardian dogs and Unega Mountain Dog Rescue, which help protect them when they need protection themselves.

I hope his story reminds readers of all ages that trust is earned, kindness matters, and sometimes even the protectors need protecting.

This book is dedicated to Tiffany Larson, whose loyalty to the guardians matches their own.

—Wendy Drasdo