Pets hold a special place in our hearts. They are our companions, our best friends, our children, even our therapists at times. This collection of stories is a tribute to the animals that have blessed us with their love. About Hearts Alive Village: Hearts Alive Village Las Vegas (HAVLV) is a 501 c]3 organization whose mission is to secure loving and stable homes for dogs and cats at risk of being lost in the shelter system. The organization began because of a journal entry from Christy Stevens' 10 year old daughter about her "One Wish." Kendall Stevens wanted to start an animal rescue called Hearts Alive Village, where she would save everything from dogs and cats, to pigs and goats. Two years later, they are short a few pigs, but the rescue has saved more than 110 animals, and fed and cared for 100s more through a variety of owner support programs. Hearts Alive aims to keep pets in their original homes whenever possible. Programs like Kendall's Kupboard (a pet food pantry), which feeds more than 200 dogs and cats in low income families each month, and Solutions over Surrenders gives pet owners access to resources like training, financial assistance, and more, allow families to stay together, even during the difficult times. This 100% volunteer rescue also provides Humane Education to youth groups throughout the valley, works with Veterans to place amazing pets with loving individuals, and provides transitional housing for a domestic abuse survivor. They live by the slogan "It takes a village," and work to bring the community together to improve the lives for all animals. In June of 2015, they opened their first Adoption Center and Pet Supply Store, giving animals a place to meet potential adopters, and creating a system to become self sustaining. Cat adoptions have tripled since the adoption center opened, and all of the animals are enjoying love and cuddles from volunteers, and strutting their stuff for potential adopters. The adoption center serves as a community hub to celebrate our animals, educate the public, and inspire children to make a difference, just like Kendall has. If you would like to learn more about Hearts Alive Village, please visit their website at www.havlv.com.