In 1992, I purchased the last puppy of the litter from a Rottweiler breeder in Virginia Beach. I named her Greta and soon discovered why this gorgeous creature was the last to be placed. Every time someone approached her she would let out a blood-curdling scream, thrash her head back and forth and snip at anything in her path. Understanding that this pup was growing by the minute, my concern grew by the second. My head was telling me that I was in store for many troubles, but my heart told me that there had to be a reason why an 8 week-old puppy was dangerously neurotic.

I had her evaluated by three different veterinarians who said they could find nothing physically wrong. I spent hours researching animal behaviorists and other professionals knowledgeable about dogs. They all said, "Bring her here. We'll figure it out." No one did -- until one special day that I will never forget.

I started a new job working in telecommunications, causing me to drive past a new veterinary clinic. I stopped in and met an energetic and non-conforming vet who started to ask me about my pup. These questions were different. She asked non-clinical questions such as how many puppies were in the litter and whether the puppies were kept inside or outside. The light bulb quickly went off in my head and we figured out the problem within minutes. My beautiful baby was simply not accustomed to human touch. She was the last of 14 puppies and had not been handled. "How do I solve this problem?" I asked. "Simple," she replied. "Massage." One seven-letter word and months of despair went out the door.

Greta was massaged from head to toe three times a day. In the beginning, I used treats and a lot of positive reinforcement to divert her tension and the "evil eye" that she would give me. Within two months I had a totally different dog. She became social and trusting.

Years passed and so did any shred of fear for humans. She became a second mother to my children, alerting me if they cried or had a dirty diaper. She became a neighborhood favorite with her soccer and basketball skills. She was obedient, stunning, and was a true inspiration to everyone who knew her.

On Friday, January 13^th, 2006, Greta died in my arms after suffering a series of seizures resulting from a brain tumor. It was a tragic day for the whole family. We miss her dearly, but the lessons she taught me will be forever present within every massage that I give.

Remember this story if ever you see an animal that seems to have an insurmountable issue. Don't give up. Sometimes the answer is right at your fingertips.

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