Homestretch to Heaven

"Homestretch to Heaven", written and illustrated by Terri Laureta, OSF, is a children's book with basic Christian beliefs and offers a reassuring answer about the death of a favored pet. It offers hope to young children (and, perhaps, to grieving adults) that their beloved pets still exist.

The story is about the adventures of "Stretch", an endearing dachshund. Stretch died and goes to Pet Heaven. Stretch makes delightful and unusual discoveries in Dog Heaven. He enjoys his discoveries and participation in numerous adventures. Members of a dog "choir" rejoice that their howling, not appreciated down on earth, is now considered heavenly music! The thought of an endless supply of popcorn and the total absence of fleas is the cause for great elation.

Stretch is also very aware that his earthly owner, Kevin, is still dubious about the existence of Dog Heaven. This doubt leaves Kevin in an inconsolable state of mind and heart.

The situation is of concern to Stretch, who undertakes a very creative way to solve the problem.