October 29, 2024 - Oxnard, CA - Imagine the terror of watching your two Golden Retrievers leap into a raging Ventura stream, vanishing in seconds. That’s exactly what happened to author David Wilk. Miraculously, his beloved dogs emerged half a mile downstream, seemingly ready for another thrill. In Amazing Dog Stories, Wilk shares this heart-pounding moment and many other adventures from a life shared with unforgettable canine companions.
In 2005, after days of rain, David Wilk and his wife, Terryle, took their three Golden Retrievers for a walk down the block to witness the wild flow of San Antonio Creek near their Ojai Valley home. The swollen creek, overflowing its banks, blocked access to their small street, carrying full trees, outdoor furniture, a tool shed, and all kinds of debris in its powerful current.
The creek had swelled to over 100 feet wide, roaring past at 30 to 40 miles per hour with waves crashing as it went. When a large blue heron landed on the far bank, Gracie and Yosemite leapt in to chase it, only to be swept away in an instant.
David sprinted downstream, desperately trying to keep the dogs in sight as they were tossed around, pulled under, and spun wildly, struggling to paddle toward the bank. Meanwhile, Terryle called 911 as neighbors watched in shock. Dense stands of tall bamboo, called Arundinaria, lined the shore, making it impossible for David to spot the dogs in the current.
Nearly a mile downstream, out of breath and drained, David finally stopped, grappling with the terrible reality of what had happened. But when he returned, he saw something incredible: there were the Goldens right next to Terryle and some neighbors who had come to help. The dogs were happy and healthy, being hugged and petted all around, their tails wagging in exhilaration. Somehow, they had managed to swim out of the raging stream.
A week later Wilk was on an airplane and happened to sit next to a veterinarian. He told him the harrowing story.
“What kind of dogs were they?” the vet asked.
“Golden Retrievers,” Wilk replied.
“That figures. Goldens are great swimmers. I’ve seen plenty of drowned dogs in my work, but never a Golden. They can swim out of anything.”
“Wow, I sure wish I knew that last week!” Wilk replied.
Readers and dog lovers alike will enjoy reading about this harrowing adventure and more precarious escapades, all told with humor, in Amazing Dog Stories. Available in paperback, e-books or audio books.
About David Wilk:
David Wilk is an author and a lifelong dog lover. He has written two novels – Big City Fish and Gridlock – three non-fiction books and assisted on a screenplay for Gridlock. Sixteen years ago he was asked to write a biography for a private individual. He loved the project and has now written or ghost written 18 biographical books. Wilk currently resides in Oxnard Shores, California, with his wife Terryle (nickname “Tunes”) and two dogs – Petey and Tinker
Media contact:
David Wilk
(805) 455-5980
wilkonian@sbcglobal.net
AmazingDogStories.net
Book Name: Amazing Dog Stories
Author Name: David Wilk
ISBN Number: 1917399375
Kindle Version: Click Here
Paperback Version: Click Here
Audiobook Version: Click Here
review copies furnished upon request
Media Contact
Company Name: Book Publishing Pros
Email: Send Email
Phone: +1-213-734-5715
Address:17595 Harvard Ave, Ste C-641
City: Irvine
State: California
Country: United States
Website: https://bookpublishingpros.co
