Cover artwork on display for “A Shelter Is…”. Photos courtesy of Carolyn Wooddall

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - A new children’s book series is empowering young animal allies nationwide. In 2024, approximately 6.3 million companion animals found themselves in shelters across the United States. iPub Cloud International is thrilled to introduce an extraordinary new children’s book that shines a light on this urgent issue. “A Shelter Is… A Dog’s Journey from Shelter to Home,” the debut picture book by Carolyn Wooddall and beautifully illustrated by Elaine S. Choi, captures the hopes, resilience, and love that define the shelter experience.

With its heartfelt storytelling and vibrant artwork, this inspiring book empowers young readers to connect with the cause and take action to support their local animal shelters. 

The author aims to enlighten and motivate children through her Animal Ally book series. The first book, “A Shelter Is…,” tells the touching story of a hopeful dog in a shelter navigating its path to finding a forever home. Through simple storytelling and vivid illustrations, the book highlights shelters' essential roles in nurturing and rehoming pets. “A Shelter Is…” not only aims to educate young minds about animal shelters but also encourages our youth to actively participate in creating happier endings for all animals in need.

Photo of the book’s author, Carolyn Wooddall.

“A beautifully illustrated piece showcasing the invaluable resource our local shelters play in our communities. A perfect introduction for children to learn about the lifesaving work of dedicated staff and bringing families and pets in need of homes together!” Explained Meghan Ramczyk, Animal Services Manager for the Lodi City animal shelter. 

The author’s deep passion for animal welfare shines through in her writing. "My goal with this book is to educate readers about the powerful impact of animal shelters and their remarkable work," she said. "I also want to empower kids to understand how they can get involved and make a difference in the lives of shelter animals in their communities." 

Community Impact: 

Key Statistics (Source: www.ShelterAnimalsCount.com): 

Approximately 3.2 million sheltered animals are cats, while 3.1 million are dogs. Around 50% of U.S. shelters maintain no-kill policies. An estimated 4.1 million shelter animals find homes each year. 

Proceeds from the Animal Ally series will benefit Hard Luck Animal Welfare Advocates, a nonprofit that the author and her husband started in 2023 to help shelter animals who are down on their luck, as well as other animal shelters, supporting medical care and adoption efforts for animals in need. This initiative reflects a significant opportunity for communities to rally together for a compassionate cause, ensuring more animals like the one in Wooddall’s book find their happily ever after.

Photo of the book’s illustrator, Elanie S. Choi.

The author resides in Sacramento with her family and their four shelter pups. Her debut picture book is perfect for young animal lovers, and anyone interested in positively impacting animals' lives. It is a compelling reminder that while shelters are essential, the ultimate goal is to turn them into temporary stops on the way to loving homes. 

For more information on how to support or to order a copy of “A Shelter Is…,” visit www.ipubglobalconnection.com. For more information about how kids can get involved with their local animal shelters and become Animal Allies, visit www.animalallybooks.com.