Stafford Resident and Old Dominion Humane Society Volunteer Debuts Book About Rescue Dog

Contact: Lenora Kruk-Mullanaphy

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Stafford Resident and Old Dominion Humane Society Volunteer Debuts Book About Rescue Dog

‘Panda’s Big Heart’ is about a Deaf Rescue who Changed Author’s Life

Fredericksburg, Va. (June 16, 2025)—After fostering dozens of rescue dogs from Old Dominion Humane Society (ODHS), Ana Ojeda, of Stafford County, has written and illustrated “Panda’s Big Heart” to share her experiences. The book focuses on Panda, who changed Ojeda’s life and has been an inspiration to her. With colorful pictures and endearing illustrations of Panda, the book is geared to young children and one that adults will enjoy, too.

“I wrote this book after fostering many dogs from ODHS,” said Ojeda, 42. “Panda, a deaf pup, especially changed my life. Her story inspired me to share with others that fostering and adopting really saves lives.”

The book is about a little rescue dog named Panda who can’t hear, but she feels everything. All she craves is a friend who understands that love doesn’t need sound to be strong. It’s a celebration of gentle hearts, different ways of connecting and truly being seen. The children’s book will touch the hearts of youngsters who experience the world in their own special ways.

Ojeda said she wishes she’d known about fostering when she was younger. Now, she wants to help others—especially children—understand the importance of fostering. With “Panda’s Big Heart,” Ojeda hopes to bring the message of how invaluable it is for rescues to have a safe and secure foster home while they’re waiting to be adopted. She’s gained so much inspiration from the rescues she’s fostered that it motivated her to create the book, which includes ODHS and the nonprofit’s work to rescue and find homes for dogs, including Panda.

“Panda was rescued from rough beginnings, and she never knew love—until she finally found it,” said Ojeda. Her story is a heartwarming one of patience, resilience and the power of love beyond words.”

Panda is a French bulldog with a story that’s heartbreaking. When an irresponsible breeder wanted to “cash in” on the “fluffy Frenchie” trend, Panda was the result of inbreeding in an endeavor to create a designer dog. The consequences for Panda were dire—she was born deaf, suffers from chronic health issues, is allergic to most foods and can only eat a special diet ordered through a veterinarian.

Panda’s life would change forever in 2024 when she was brought to Avello Rescue, in Stafford, which was founded by Ojeda. The rescue is a rehabilitation sanctuary for homeless dogs in need of time, love and healing. Panda is given comfort, unconditional love and the specialized care she needs, and the volunteers agree that she gives back tenfold with her gentle spirit. Avello Rescue is a private, nonprofit organization, where 100 percent of each donation goes to the dogs and puppies.

A multimedia artist and animal rescuer, Ojeda was born in Peru and raised in Virginia. She navigated Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and dyslexia while she learned to speak and read English. Finding her voice through art, she works to rescue animals by telling their stories and helping them get adopted and having their chance to be loved.

To find out more about “Panda’s Big Heart” and to purchase the book, visit Amazon, Ingramspark or visit the Avello website at https://avellorescue.org/book.

ODHS is located at 3602 Lafayette Boulevard in Fredericksburg. Adoption events are Wednesdays from 5-7 p.m., Fridays from 6-8 p.m., Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Applications in advance are preferred and take priority over walk-ins. For more information about the dogs available for adoption and adoption surveys, as well as upcoming events, volunteering, fostering and donating items, visit ###

Mission Statement: Old Dominion Humane Society is here to provide well-matched, permanent homes for dogs in need through rescue, rehabilitation and education.