"Angel Sheppard, MD (Missionary Dog) Extraordinaire!"

Growing up in southern Wisconsin with my parents, three brothers and twin sister, little dogs were not unusual. In fact, a little toy poodle named Gigi became a member of our family when I was in second grade. She was absolutely adored. Because of that, enjoying a little house dog was something I completely understood.

Nancy and Karen Brushaber with Gigi in Whitewater, WI

However, my children grew up as MKs (missionary kids) in West Africa with little wild animals for pets. The dogs that lived on the yard were for security more than play. So when John-Mark's wife Sara wanted a little house dog, he wasn't quite sure what to think. However, a white poodle showed up on Craig's List and John-Mark decided to give small dog ownership a try.

John-Mark and Melodie with a friend's pet chimp

Having suffered much abuse with her previous owners, Angel was terrified of people and in pathetic physical condition. But after lots of love and care, John-Mark and Sara won her heart. And once Angel was feeling better, they took her out and about. 

Because she was so cute, Angel created opportunities for John-Mark and Sara to meet and interact with people—even to share their faith. 

Sara and Angel in 2010

And how Angel's life has turned around! John-Mark and Sara decided to bring her with them to Liberia when they returned as full-time missionaries in January of 2013. So Angel is now a very well-traveled dog. Besides the seventeen states in which she has traveled, Angel has been on one major international flight and several small plane adventures in Liberia—even sitting in the cockpit for one. She has climbed mountains, swam in the Atlantic Ocean and even been rock-sliding. With the exception of Antarctica, she's been petted by people from every continent. 

God is so wise and yet has such a sense of humor. Who would have thought a little white poodle could open up so many conversations? Because Angel is totally unique in Liberia, everywhere they go John-Mark and Sara meet people who are fascinated with her and eager to talk with Angel's owners. In fact, it would not be an exaggeration to say that the ministry doors Angel opens up for John-Mark and Sara could qualify her for the title "Angel Sheppard, MD (Missionary Dog) Extraordinaire!"

jmandsarainliberia.com

See The Surprising Privilege of Diaper Changing.

See The Upside of Suffering.