During a crisis intervention program, Fidel walked up to one woman and put his paws on her knee.
She picked up the dog, crying, and asked, "How does this dog know that I am in such pain?"
It was stories like this that inspired McPherson to write Every Dog Has a Gift, out today. Through interviews with dog owners from around the country, and drawing from her experiences as founder and director of animal-assisted therapy program The Good Dog Foundation, McPherson writes of the many ways in which dogs can help humans.
"I think we need to rely more on animals and be much more aware of what's going on around us," McPherson tells PEOPLEPets.com. "They're always talking to us and sharing information."
And helping – like in her story about an autistic boy that coped with his challenges through the help of a dog, and another about a homeless man that survived his struggles thanks to his loyal pooch.
McPherson, a former filmmaker, was working on a documentary about animal-assisted therapy when she became so taken with the work that she started The Good Dog Foundation. Through the organization, she influenced NewYork State law and helped make it possible for therapy dogs to enter health care facilities.
"Through therapy dog work, we're spreading the word to a lot of people who are sick and in need about the benefits of having an animal," McPherson says. "There's a shift happening. People are beginning to have much more respect for dogs and their needs."
Check out more heartwarming animal tales on PEOPLEPets.com:
Oscar, the Cat Who Senses Death, Is the Star of New Book
Former Michael Vick Pit Bull Enjoying New Life As Therapy Dog
