Dean Koontz is a very special Golden celebrity for us. Not only is he a most gifted writer, but he is happily owned by a Golden named Trixie, and thus smitten by the miracle qualities that these furry loves possess. He and his wife, Gerda, are also Honorary Board Members of Canine Companions for Independence [CCI], and are doing so much to further the efforts of this very special organization.

In the summer of 2005, Dean and Gerda attended the annual CCI fundraising Gala in Oceanside, CA. The big moment of the evening is the auctioning off of the right to name a CCI puppy. This usually brings in around $10,000 to 15,0000 ... but this year, The Koontz’s decided to up the ante. After a bidding war that went beyond $100,000, Dean finally bid $500,000! This is the largest amount to date paid by anyone to name a CCI puppy!  Bonnie Sposato, from CCI's Valley of the Sun Arizona Chapter was given puppy "Gerda" to raise in Phoenix. I am told she is a delight, and although only ¾ Golden, looks Golden through and through.


Announcing Miss Golden Gerda
I am told that puppy Gerda is quite a handful, but as you can see, as cute as she can be!

Cutie Gerda

Blondie Alert: Gerda & Puppy Raiser Bonnie Sposato

A Costumed Princess Gerda
 

Gerda's Imitation of a Flag

Gerda Taking Time to Smell the Flowers