Nave spreads word about rescue group

A labor of love is turning into a happy journey for Sisters historian, artist, author and Scottish terrier lover, Jean Nave. She and her husband Claude adopted two rescued Scotties, Harry and Lola, in December. The Naves have a long history with the breed, having acquired their first Scottie dog 24 years ago.

"We've had five others before these two," said Jean. "They are extremely loyal but independent, low-wattage dogs, and they don't shed."

Jean discovered that the rescue group fostering Harry and Lola, Aberdeen Scottish Terrier Rescue, was staffed by a handful of dedicated but overwhelmed volunteers, and she decided to get involved. Her first effort was writing a children's book chronicling Harry and Lola's adventures. Then she realized one book wouldn't do them justice, so three more are in process.

The book is free and may be downloaded from Harry and Lola's Web site, http://www.harryandlola.org. Nave illustrated the book, and the pictures capture the charming assertiveness inherent in a Scottie dog.

She recently did the first reading of the book to an eager group at A Joyful Noise Learning Center in Sisters. The story tells of Harry and Lola's first meeting with a raccoon, courtesy of their friend, a cat named Smoki. The dogs learn some details of raccoon life and the importance of friendship before being called back into the house by their human "parents."

A book club at Aspen Lakes offered good feedback during the writing process, and she is especially grateful for the perspective of teachers and grandmothers in the group.

Nave's goal with the book is to raise awareness of rescue groups, particularly for Scotties, and perhaps garner physical or financial support.

"If you give something to people, they'll remember," she said of making the book a free download.

Rescue groups abound for every breed of dog, and nearly any other type of pet a person might consider. Petfinder.com is a great resource to track down pets from snakes to horses. Someone hankering after a personable Scottie is likely to find one at Aberdeen Scottish Terrier Rescue, http://www.aberdeenstr.com.