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Remembering Dexter
After being thrown out from a moving car on a motorway and rescued from the dog pound by Brian Porter and his wife, Dexter had a happy life in their family of rescue dogs.
On the 8thJune, 2019, Dexter - a Labrador-Staffy Crossbreed - passed away after a year-long fight against illness. Part funny, part serious and part tragic, this is the story of Dexter’s life.
174 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 12, 2019
35 people are currently reading
29 people want to read
About the author
Brian L. Porter
62 books70 followersFormerly a member of the Royal Air Force, Brian L Porter is an award-winning author, and a dedicated dog rescuer, with the distinction of having more than twenty Amazon #1 bestsellers to his name. He has written under three pseudonyms, with bestsellers coming under each of his writing guises. The majority of those have come under his Brian L Porter name with four coming under his Harry Porter and Juan Pablo Jalisco names.
Nowadays, he divides his time between writing his popular Mersey Murder Mystery series of books, and his immensely successful true-life Family of Rescue Dogs series, all featuring the dogs that form part of his own family, and all having been Amazon #1 bestsellers.
Nowadays, he divides his time between writing his popular Mersey Murder Mystery series of books, and his immensely successful true-life Family of Rescue Dogs series, all featuring the dogs that form part of his own family, and all having been Amazon #1 bestsellers.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
July 26, 2020
Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase
Only two weeks after Brian Porter and his wife Juliet had added a beautiful brindle greyhound/lurcher called Sophie to their extensive collection, they decided to pay another visit to their local dog pound and his ten-year-old daughter Rebecca persuaded him to look at another eager hopeful. This particular stray, a black Labrador, had decided to attract attention by dragging his blanket into a patch of sunlight at the front of his pen, showing off his beautiful white chest markings and white socks on his black coat.
What clinched the matter was the horrendous story they heard from Louise, the young assistant. According to an eye witness, the Labrador had been dumped out of a car travelling about 60 mph along the motorway and was lucky enough not to be killed by passing traffic, but suffered severe bruising.
They learnt that he was microchipped and was called Dexter and after that they couldn’t wait to sign the necessary paperwork and take him home.
This is a beautifully written and illustrated book that will tear at your heartstrings and his ultimate passing brought a lump to my throat – I don’t know how Brian managed to get so much detail into the story that covered over ten years of a very happy life, surrounded by much love and attention. I particularly like the special memorial garden set up close to the bird sanctuary where Dexter loved to sit and watch their activities without disturbing them.
Only two weeks after Brian Porter and his wife Juliet had added a beautiful brindle greyhound/lurcher called Sophie to their extensive collection, they decided to pay another visit to their local dog pound and his ten-year-old daughter Rebecca persuaded him to look at another eager hopeful. This particular stray, a black Labrador, had decided to attract attention by dragging his blanket into a patch of sunlight at the front of his pen, showing off his beautiful white chest markings and white socks on his black coat.
What clinched the matter was the horrendous story they heard from Louise, the young assistant. According to an eye witness, the Labrador had been dumped out of a car travelling about 60 mph along the motorway and was lucky enough not to be killed by passing traffic, but suffered severe bruising.
They learnt that he was microchipped and was called Dexter and after that they couldn’t wait to sign the necessary paperwork and take him home.
This is a beautifully written and illustrated book that will tear at your heartstrings and his ultimate passing brought a lump to my throat – I don’t know how Brian managed to get so much detail into the story that covered over ten years of a very happy life, surrounded by much love and attention. I particularly like the special memorial garden set up close to the bird sanctuary where Dexter loved to sit and watch their activities without disturbing them.
April 17, 2021
The last year or so has given the world an opportunity to review what is important. Family, freedom and fun have emerged as more important than finance and fretting. With so many people confined by lockdown, they have turned to pets as a consolation.
This book Remembering Dexter, by Brian Porter, is a reminded of the love that dogs and humans can share.
There is a proverb, coined in the 16th century, that says “every dog has its day” and Dexter’s day arrived when Brian Porter arrived to save him from a dog shelter. Until then, Dexter didn’t have many good days with his humans having tossed him from a car onto a busy road. One would imagine that Dexter didn’t much care for humans after that experience. However, Dexter was a Labrador, a dog noted for their loving temperament, and when Brian and Juliet Porter adopted him, he fitted right in.
Without adding spoilers, I can only say that if you love dogs, and birds, then this is the book for you. Why birds? Well, Dexter loved them, so why not?
An easy five stars.
This book Remembering Dexter, by Brian Porter, is a reminded of the love that dogs and humans can share.
There is a proverb, coined in the 16th century, that says “every dog has its day” and Dexter’s day arrived when Brian Porter arrived to save him from a dog shelter. Until then, Dexter didn’t have many good days with his humans having tossed him from a car onto a busy road. One would imagine that Dexter didn’t much care for humans after that experience. However, Dexter was a Labrador, a dog noted for their loving temperament, and when Brian and Juliet Porter adopted him, he fitted right in.
Without adding spoilers, I can only say that if you love dogs, and birds, then this is the book for you. Why birds? Well, Dexter loved them, so why not?
An easy five stars.
October 22, 2019
Remembering Dexter - Review by Martha A. Cheves
"It's a sad tale really. Someone was driving along the motorway one day, quite recently, and suddenly saw a car up ahead open one of its doors, and a dog was literally thrown from the car onto the motorway. As it was travelling at about 60 mph, the poor dog hit the tarmac with some force and rolled over and over until it came to a halt on the hard shoulder. Luckily, there was no other traffic following the car, or he could have been hit and killed. The person who witnessed it, quickly applied the breaks and pulled onto the hard shoulder. They were too far behind to get the number of the car that threw him out, which quickly accelerated away, and was lost to sight in no time. They checked the poor dog, as best as they could, then gently loaded him into their car and dove him to the next town, luckily only a few miles down the road. They found a vet, told him what had happened, and left the dog in his care." The dog in this story is Dexter.
After hearing this story told to Brian and his wife Juliet, by one of the Dog Pound employee, being both mad and hurting regarding the treatment this beautiful Labrador/Staffy Crossbreed received, they decided to take him for a walk with one of the pack members they had brought along to see how he would fit in. It didn't take long for everyone to decide this beauty had just found himself a new, loving home.
As I read Dexter's story I also became mad at the way some people treat these loving beings. A dog, in many ways, is more caring than people. My dog Jesse is a rescue too and our first day together bonded us to the point that he doesn't want me out of his sight and I actually don't want him out of mine. As I sit at my computer, he lays under my feet. If I get up, so does he. When I go to another room or up the stairs, he follows. And at night he sleeps curled up against my back. Yes he sleeps with me. He wakes me every morning around 7:00 a.m. with kisses. Now, what human has ever shown that much love? I've never known one that is that caring. Jesse is my best friend and my soulmate. Like Dexter, my Jesse is getting up in age. I know his time is near and like Brian and Juliet, it will be a time that will give me pain for a long time.
I can't help but admire this Brian and Juliet. Their love for our four legged friends is so great. I can only wish I was in a position to take care of the 10 to 12 that they have at all times. They are both very special people. So, if you're a dog lover you must read Remembering Dexter. If you aren't a dog lover, read it anyway and you might just become one. After all what does DOG spell backwards?! Do you think God made Dogs and named them after himself and that is why they are so special?
"It's a sad tale really. Someone was driving along the motorway one day, quite recently, and suddenly saw a car up ahead open one of its doors, and a dog was literally thrown from the car onto the motorway. As it was travelling at about 60 mph, the poor dog hit the tarmac with some force and rolled over and over until it came to a halt on the hard shoulder. Luckily, there was no other traffic following the car, or he could have been hit and killed. The person who witnessed it, quickly applied the breaks and pulled onto the hard shoulder. They were too far behind to get the number of the car that threw him out, which quickly accelerated away, and was lost to sight in no time. They checked the poor dog, as best as they could, then gently loaded him into their car and dove him to the next town, luckily only a few miles down the road. They found a vet, told him what had happened, and left the dog in his care." The dog in this story is Dexter.
After hearing this story told to Brian and his wife Juliet, by one of the Dog Pound employee, being both mad and hurting regarding the treatment this beautiful Labrador/Staffy Crossbreed received, they decided to take him for a walk with one of the pack members they had brought along to see how he would fit in. It didn't take long for everyone to decide this beauty had just found himself a new, loving home.
As I read Dexter's story I also became mad at the way some people treat these loving beings. A dog, in many ways, is more caring than people. My dog Jesse is a rescue too and our first day together bonded us to the point that he doesn't want me out of his sight and I actually don't want him out of mine. As I sit at my computer, he lays under my feet. If I get up, so does he. When I go to another room or up the stairs, he follows. And at night he sleeps curled up against my back. Yes he sleeps with me. He wakes me every morning around 7:00 a.m. with kisses. Now, what human has ever shown that much love? I've never known one that is that caring. Jesse is my best friend and my soulmate. Like Dexter, my Jesse is getting up in age. I know his time is near and like Brian and Juliet, it will be a time that will give me pain for a long time.
I can't help but admire this Brian and Juliet. Their love for our four legged friends is so great. I can only wish I was in a position to take care of the 10 to 12 that they have at all times. They are both very special people. So, if you're a dog lover you must read Remembering Dexter. If you aren't a dog lover, read it anyway and you might just become one. After all what does DOG spell backwards?! Do you think God made Dogs and named them after himself and that is why they are so special?
October 19, 2019
A Special Animal in Every Way
Dexter was a beautiful animal, with a sleek black coat and even, lovable temperament. While I follow this series of rescue dog stories, I can see how attached to Dexter the author had grown. And who could not grow close to that laid back animal that had traits of human personality.
The author, Brian L. Porter, writes about the dogs he and his wife, Juliet, take into their home. The stories are heartwarming about how these two people and their love of dogs take a big dent out of the number of homeless animals. In each story of Porter’s dogs, you’d think that the one written about was the favorite. But that simply isn’t true. The Porter’s love all their animals. That’s why each one gets its own story. Each story tells the tale of a particular animal’s characteristic, lovable or otherwise, and what makes them special.
Dexter was a laid back but Oh! so intelligent dog. He had a love of the Porter’s backyard bird visitors and the birds accepted him. They knew he would not harm them. The tribute garden built for Dexter attests how much he was loved and how much he loved his family of humans and birds. Dexter’s memorial garden is a hugely heartwarming tribute.
Dexter was a beautiful animal, with a sleek black coat and even, lovable temperament. While I follow this series of rescue dog stories, I can see how attached to Dexter the author had grown. And who could not grow close to that laid back animal that had traits of human personality.
The author, Brian L. Porter, writes about the dogs he and his wife, Juliet, take into their home. The stories are heartwarming about how these two people and their love of dogs take a big dent out of the number of homeless animals. In each story of Porter’s dogs, you’d think that the one written about was the favorite. But that simply isn’t true. The Porter’s love all their animals. That’s why each one gets its own story. Each story tells the tale of a particular animal’s characteristic, lovable or otherwise, and what makes them special.
Dexter was a laid back but Oh! so intelligent dog. He had a love of the Porter’s backyard bird visitors and the birds accepted him. They knew he would not harm them. The tribute garden built for Dexter attests how much he was loved and how much he loved his family of humans and birds. Dexter’s memorial garden is a hugely heartwarming tribute.
October 16, 2019
Wow, this is my favorite so far in this series!
As always I am a huge fan and 5 stars is not enough. The best part is this family rescued so many dogs that would not have had a chance in a shelter.
Of course with every one of the books you laugh, cry and cheer for these sweet dogs.
I have been a following Brian on Facebook and Dexter’s journey. Dexter was definitely a silly and smart boy. He did things on his terms as far as training and playing. Dexter was also a gentle soul and loved being with his bird friends.
Without going into any plot spoilers I was so sad when Dexter passed. My heart hurt for his family. As the days and weeks went by, Brian created a beautiful garden in Dexter’s honor. Also, the support he received on Facebook from family and friends was so heartwarming.
I want to say thanks to Brian and Juliet for rescuing so many dogs. For every dog that is adopted leaves room for another dog.
Blessings to his family and pack.
As always I am a huge fan and 5 stars is not enough. The best part is this family rescued so many dogs that would not have had a chance in a shelter.
Of course with every one of the books you laugh, cry and cheer for these sweet dogs.
I have been a following Brian on Facebook and Dexter’s journey. Dexter was definitely a silly and smart boy. He did things on his terms as far as training and playing. Dexter was also a gentle soul and loved being with his bird friends.
Without going into any plot spoilers I was so sad when Dexter passed. My heart hurt for his family. As the days and weeks went by, Brian created a beautiful garden in Dexter’s honor. Also, the support he received on Facebook from family and friends was so heartwarming.
I want to say thanks to Brian and Juliet for rescuing so many dogs. For every dog that is adopted leaves room for another dog.
Blessings to his family and pack.
October 17, 2019
A beautiful 5th book in the Family of Rescue Dogs series. Beautiful photos and a truly beautiful story that will bring tears to your eyes. They called Dexter the 'bird-dog' because of his love for the wild birds that visited the author's garden every day. This incredible dog even let the sparrows perch on his back! Dexter fought a year long battle against illness and when he finally lost his fight, the tears were running down my face. The author then created a wonderful tribute to Dexter in the form of 'Dexter' s Memorial Garden ' in permanent remembrance of this much loved dog. A must read for all dog lovers.
January 25, 2020
Beautiful remembrance of a dear friend
I've read all the books in this series by Brain Porter. Each one tells the story of a very unique dog in the Porter home and each story is special. Remembering Dexter was especially touching as my boyfriend and I said good-bye to our sixteen year old black lab border collie mix, Mogul on September 2, 2019. Dogs touch our hearts in ways unimaginable and Brian Porter is able to express it in such a heartfelt manner. It's unfair that our time with them is short. Thank you Mr. Porter for sharing your pups with your readers. To Dexter, I hope you're enjoying the big garden over the bridge.
I've read all the books in this series by Brain Porter. Each one tells the story of a very unique dog in the Porter home and each story is special. Remembering Dexter was especially touching as my boyfriend and I said good-bye to our sixteen year old black lab border collie mix, Mogul on September 2, 2019. Dogs touch our hearts in ways unimaginable and Brian Porter is able to express it in such a heartfelt manner. It's unfair that our time with them is short. Thank you Mr. Porter for sharing your pups with your readers. To Dexter, I hope you're enjoying the big garden over the bridge.
January 6, 2020
For the Love of Dexter
This is a well written story of the Love a family has for their rescue dog, Dexter. He gave them so much love and happiness and they gave
him a wonderful life. He knew only love and caring from them. He was a very special dog and they are a very special family. By rescuing dogs and giving them loving homes, the Porter family's lives are greatly enhanced and the dogs are loved and given good lives. Love at its finest. May God Bless Brian L. Porter and his family.
This is a well written story of the Love a family has for their rescue dog, Dexter. He gave them so much love and happiness and they gave
him a wonderful life. He knew only love and caring from them. He was a very special dog and they are a very special family. By rescuing dogs and giving them loving homes, the Porter family's lives are greatly enhanced and the dogs are loved and given good lives. Love at its finest. May God Bless Brian L. Porter and his family.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 19, 2019
Have the tissues on standby!
Having read the rest of Brian's rescue dog books, l was looking forward to reading this one - and l wasn't disappointed. Talk about tugging the heart strings!! The story is bitter sweet, the photos are amazing, and as usual, wonderfully written as only Brian can. I felt as though l was there with him as he reflected on Dexter's life.
A beautiful story about a beautiful little guy.
You're going to LOVE it!
Having read the rest of Brian's rescue dog books, l was looking forward to reading this one - and l wasn't disappointed. Talk about tugging the heart strings!! The story is bitter sweet, the photos are amazing, and as usual, wonderfully written as only Brian can. I felt as though l was there with him as he reflected on Dexter's life.
A beautiful story about a beautiful little guy.
You're going to LOVE it!
January 21, 2025
A fitting tribute to a special friend
For those of us who feel our heart swell when seeing the devotion between humans and their precious dogs, we can understand the desire to keep their memories alive after they have passed on. So it is with Porter and his memory of Dexter. Dexter passed just two weeks before writing the book, so the pain of loss was still palpable. Yet, he managed to tell a heartwarming tale of another rescue who stole everyone’s heart.
While pondering what to do on a sunny day, the Porters went to the “dog place” at the request of their young daughters. As they walked through the kennel area, Brian heard the familiar cry of “You’ve got to see this dog!” Already named Dexter, this little fellow did not have a litany of physical ailments like previous rescues. But he was discarded, thrown from a moving car at 60 mph, and had suffered some minor injuries which were healing nicely.
Long story short, after the usual technicalities of adoption were take care of, Dexter was brought home, making an even dozen fur babies in the Porter household. He was accepted into the fold by the other dogs with no problem, demonstrated cleverness, calm, curiosity and a desire to please. He soon became a favorite with Facebook followers who enjoyed reading Porter’s posts. In fact, when it came time to write a new book, it was Dexter’s story that his fans wanted most to read.
Although the Porters experienced the sadness of losing some of their other dogs, years of joy passed by with Dexter enjoying his life. How many dogs enjoy being vacuumed? Usually they bark and run off at the noise, but because Dexter enjoyed this ritual some suspicious lumps were discovered. An exam by the vet revealed them to be benign, but removal was necessary. Dexter had always been an affable fellow with the other dogs, unless they tried to poach his toys or bones. But oddly, he had developed an affinity for the local bird population, becoming their companion and playmate. And throughout Dexter’s recuperation his bird friends were there, hovering and perching on him like guardian angels as he slept in the sun.
In time, Dexter began to slow down, developed fluid in his lungs and an irregular heart rhythm, the process of old age taking its toll. There was one last walk with Brian, one last night with Muttley sleeping next to him so he wouldn’t be alone. It was time for Dexter to cross the Rainbow Bridge. And though Brian hoped his boy would go to sleep and not wake up, he knew he had to help him pass. That final trip to the vet was excruciating but merciful.
As Brian pondered a fitting tribute, a grand idea took shape. I will let you read about this very special place - Dexter’s Memorial Garden - a haven for his feathered friends and a place for all who loved him. A place for visiting and Remembering Dexter.
For those of us who feel our heart swell when seeing the devotion between humans and their precious dogs, we can understand the desire to keep their memories alive after they have passed on. So it is with Porter and his memory of Dexter. Dexter passed just two weeks before writing the book, so the pain of loss was still palpable. Yet, he managed to tell a heartwarming tale of another rescue who stole everyone’s heart.
While pondering what to do on a sunny day, the Porters went to the “dog place” at the request of their young daughters. As they walked through the kennel area, Brian heard the familiar cry of “You’ve got to see this dog!” Already named Dexter, this little fellow did not have a litany of physical ailments like previous rescues. But he was discarded, thrown from a moving car at 60 mph, and had suffered some minor injuries which were healing nicely.
Long story short, after the usual technicalities of adoption were take care of, Dexter was brought home, making an even dozen fur babies in the Porter household. He was accepted into the fold by the other dogs with no problem, demonstrated cleverness, calm, curiosity and a desire to please. He soon became a favorite with Facebook followers who enjoyed reading Porter’s posts. In fact, when it came time to write a new book, it was Dexter’s story that his fans wanted most to read.
Although the Porters experienced the sadness of losing some of their other dogs, years of joy passed by with Dexter enjoying his life. How many dogs enjoy being vacuumed? Usually they bark and run off at the noise, but because Dexter enjoyed this ritual some suspicious lumps were discovered. An exam by the vet revealed them to be benign, but removal was necessary. Dexter had always been an affable fellow with the other dogs, unless they tried to poach his toys or bones. But oddly, he had developed an affinity for the local bird population, becoming their companion and playmate. And throughout Dexter’s recuperation his bird friends were there, hovering and perching on him like guardian angels as he slept in the sun.
In time, Dexter began to slow down, developed fluid in his lungs and an irregular heart rhythm, the process of old age taking its toll. There was one last walk with Brian, one last night with Muttley sleeping next to him so he wouldn’t be alone. It was time for Dexter to cross the Rainbow Bridge. And though Brian hoped his boy would go to sleep and not wake up, he knew he had to help him pass. That final trip to the vet was excruciating but merciful.
As Brian pondered a fitting tribute, a grand idea took shape. I will let you read about this very special place - Dexter’s Memorial Garden - a haven for his feathered friends and a place for all who loved him. A place for visiting and Remembering Dexter.
August 15, 2024
i loved it, as i have the other 4 i've read in his rescue dog series. dexter seriously tugged at my heart. i lost my Sasha oct. 2, 2015. i'd had her since she was 5 mos. old and she was 15 yrs. when she crossed over. i still think of her all the time and miss her.
i love brian's writing style, like an old friend is writing me a letter. i just bought book 6 in the rescue series.
if u love dogs, u must read these books.
thanks brian and keep writing !
i love brian's writing style, like an old friend is writing me a letter. i just bought book 6 in the rescue series.
if u love dogs, u must read these books.
thanks brian and keep writing !
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June 14, 2021Dexter
I loved the book Remembering Dexter. I have felt all of the emotions that Brian and Juliet felt for their dogs. This book was wonderful and heart wrenching all at the same time. Thank you for the (Family Of Rescue Dogs) series.
I loved the book Remembering Dexter. I have felt all of the emotions that Brian and Juliet felt for their dogs. This book was wonderful and heart wrenching all at the same time. Thank you for the (Family Of Rescue Dogs) series.
September 2, 2020
This is a lovely story about a dog named Dexter and his human family.
I was the translator of this book to Portuguese :)
I was the translator of this book to Portuguese :)
January 18, 2022
Dexters garden.
After reading this book and the 4 before it, I was so taken with your decision to go with a garden. How fitting for a wonderful friend.
After reading this book and the 4 before it, I was so taken with your decision to go with a garden. How fitting for a wonderful friend.
October 29, 2019
Dexter was still very young when his owners threw him from their car on a busy road. Fortunately, someone saw this happen and was kind enough to take the dog to a shelter before he was hit by a passing car. It was only by chance, that the author and his family suddenly decided to visit the shelter and when they saw Dexter, they couldn't help but want to take him home. I say by chance, because Brian and his wife already had several rescue dogs at home, so why would they want another? But then, maybe it wasn't by chance after all - maybe something behind the scenes was urging them to go. Nevertheless, they saw Dexter and knew immediately that they wanted to take him home.
There are so many wonderful things in this tale of Dexter, and how he blended into his new family of dogs and humans. However, I really don't want to spoil it by telling you about them here. I suggest that you read it for yourself at the earliest opportunity - you certainly won't be disappointed. A delightful tale. (Or should that be tail?)
There are so many wonderful things in this tale of Dexter, and how he blended into his new family of dogs and humans. However, I really don't want to spoil it by telling you about them here. I suggest that you read it for yourself at the earliest opportunity - you certainly won't be disappointed. A delightful tale. (Or should that be tail?)
November 8, 2019
.As i have rescue dogs of my own , from bad starts , i'm working my way through all of the rescue stories in this series. This is one Amazing , loving family and each and everyone of these lovely dogs have their own characteristics and story to tell. And were lucky to have found such a loving home . Loved this heart rending story . Was smiling at this gorgeous bird dogs antics and in tears , a captivating read from start to finish . Well worth reading . Such a loving vet. Looking forward to reading the rest . What a brilliant series .
December 29, 2019
Moving
As a fellow Staffy owner, I really enjoyed reading about the rescue of Dexter, and the lovely life he then got to live.
The memorial garden is a lovely idea too !
As a fellow Staffy owner, I really enjoyed reading about the rescue of Dexter, and the lovely life he then got to live.
The memorial garden is a lovely idea too !
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews