A Little Sammy Music

A Little Sammy Music is a dog book. Author Suzanne Lane is, by her own admission, a "born rescuer," having taken in, at various times, dogs, cats, a pigeon, a fiancé, and a husband. As one by one the objects of her rescue die or move out, she becomes determined to spare herself the heartache of loss. And, after repeated unsuccessful attempts at dating, she realizes that she can be happy alone. Everything changes, however, when she receives an urgent e-mail that reads, "This dog will die tomorrow if someone doesn't get him out of the system."

This message sets in motion a series of events that ends with a new soul living in her life: a forty-two pound, five-year-old dog of uncertain lineage (though one of his parents was likely a pit bull). His distinctive black and white markings are reminiscent of a snow leopard.

Even though she knows Sammy's days will be numbered if she sends him back to the shelter, Lane struggles with the question of whether to keep him. Sammy is not housebroken, is clumsy, is in constant need of veterinary attention, and difficult to walk, though he is also funny, charming, and enthusiastic.

One almost fatal episode opens up Lane's heart.