Testimonials

Just a few of Trouble’s Testimonials.

Trouble The Dog is a stuffed comfort animal touching thousands of people’s lives in so many ways.  We can tell you story after story about this magical little comfort Dog … perhaps these simple yet powerful testimonials will say it better than we can:

I can assure you that Trouble will always be a huge part of my family’s life as he is so very
important to my grandson. Whenever real life trouble hits, my grandson seeks out Trouble, his
very special friend with the soft and comforting shape. It’s miraculous, and quite wonderful, but
trouble disappears the minute Trouble appears.
–  K.P.

When I was in the first grade in 2012 you came into my class and I received a Trouble. At that

time, I didn’t know the impact this stuffed animal would make in my life. I’m now a sophmore
at NYU and Trouble travels with me everywhere. He’s not only in NYC with me currently, but
he’ll be coming with me to London next semester. Despite not looking like the dog I received at
7, he’s just as important to me now as he was in the 1 st grade. So thank you for creating Trouble
the Dog, he means the world to me. SC, UK
I’m so glad Trouble continues to bring comfort (and joy) to folks! It’s no surprise that he is in
demand in memory support communities and hospice. He’s adorable AND soft and cuddly. AN,
Mdiv, BCC
Thank you so much! I can’t tell you how amazing Trouble has been for our children. The social
workers are giving them to the children when they are removed from their homes.  Often
children have nothing but the clothes on their back.  This gives them something they can call
their own when moving into a new home.  It gives them comfort and something to snuggle.
Trouble helps so much in a scary time for our children.  Thank you so much!
– Carla King

Dept. of Children and Families Cape Ann area office
No one is ever too old to be loved. Many nursing home patients take great comfort in a stuffed
animal … especially dogs. It must remind them of an animal who loved them in the past. I sing
at a different nursing home every week and I often observe this – GA, Chaplain ret., RI

I can’t believe that I received Trouble in yesterday’s mail.  Talk about great service!  I have to
say, I didn’t expect the quality of Trouble to be so outstanding!  Seriously, I don’t think I’ve ever
seen another stuffed animal that was so well made.  The pictures on the website don’t do it
justice.  You must be so proud of your product.  I guess it goes to show what “Made in the USA”
means—quality and pride in the product.  I can’t wait to give it to my grandson, Jack.  He loves
stuffed animals, especially stuffed dogs, and Trouble’s doghouse will be an extra bonus for him.
–  P.M.

Trouble’s not just a stuffed animal.  He’s alive to some people.  He’s a piece of some people’s
heart.  People sleep with him, cuddle him when they’re sick, use him as a pillow.  Trouble’s
hope.

– Anthony, age 7
NOTE:  Anthony won a Trouble for himself in a contest. According to the contest rules, a
second Trouble would be sent to anyone in the world he wanted. He chose to send Trouble to a
soldier overseas.

I know this sounds crazy, but I find Trouble SO comforting, even at 58! I sleep with him every
night! Sometimes I wake up in the middle of the night (I have a LOT on my mind) and he sits on
my chest with that goofy little face, and I just talk to him. He’s a great, non-judgemental listener,
and the look on his face just really makes you feel like he’s listening and you have his full
attention. He’s become quite a good friend. MW, MA.

This is my story about a little girl who I found out is autistic. I delivered to her TROUBLE. Her
mother cried. The special little girl took Trouble to her face and the sparkle in her eyes and a big
HUG to Trouble was the happiest response they had seen in her for a long time. This tugged on
my heart strings. I did not feel that an intrusion of a picture would be an appropriate choice, but
this special little girl was … to me … a Christmas treasure. At 85 years old, I take my Trouble
wherever I go. People ask me about him and I tell them the story. SH, AZ.

Bought Trouble the Dog for my granddaughters when they were born, and I always told them
that, when they felt sad, they could give him a hug and they would feel better.  Well, as the girls
grew (they are 7 and 5), they didn’t pay much attention to Trouble.  One was lost when they
moved to a new house, and the other resided in their room at my house. One day this summer,
their dad injured his arm and had to go to the ER.  I was called in to babysit.  The girls were
understandably worried, but carried on as usual.  As the day wore on, with no hospital updates,
the 7-year old asked to go to my house so she could use my computer.  It turned out that she had
an ulterior motive.  When we got to my house, she ran to her room and asked for Trouble.  I took
him down from the top of the bookcase where he watched over the room, and she hugged him
tightly – admitting that she needed the comfort at this time.  I was amazed that she remembered

Trouble’s “magical” powers. We replaced the lost Trouble, the girls re-decorated their
doghouses, and Trouble watches over them at their house each night.  By the way, their Dad is
doing fine. J.G., Grandparent Marblehead, MA.

I can’t say enough about what Trouble has done and does for Lucas ?. I as a parent see the magic of Trouble. If Lucas is having a hard time or a challenging day, he seeks trouble out and lays with him on his chest rubbing his ears and whispering his fears. He takes him everywhere he can and gives him a squeeze when he is feeling overwhelmed. Lucas leans on him most of all during his transfusion weeks, letting everyone know about his powers to take away his scared feelings and make him happy. He lays on his legs while he gets his portacath accessed and once treatment has started he is on his lap or sitting beside him. Trouble the Dog has magic powers that should be known.

– April Lynn, Parent
Yarmouth, Nova Scotia

Most recently we needed to place a three-year-old boy with autism. He was asked if he wanted a
“Trouble” and responded with a fast “yes!” He held Trouble through the car ride and into the
new foster home… Trouble gave him well needed comfort.
– Social Worker, Department of Children and Families

Trouble has been to very different places to lessen loneliness and grief. Two different special
people in my life cuddled with Trouble. One elderly, frail bedridden lady at the end of her life
found solace with Trouble. My much younger male cousin slept with the Dog after finding
himself in a depressed, dark place after a breakup with his first love. Snuggle with Trouble.
SB,RN

The most important issues facing kids today, in my opinion, are influences of society, social
media, instant gratification and becoming bored too easily. Story books like “Where There’s
Trouble, There’s Hope” help to refocus on home and family while sharing inspirational messages
to instill confidence in students’ abilities to pursue their individual dreams which is so important.
– Shirley Bachini, M.Ed., Ed.S, Curriculum Instruction Teacher
Julia F . Callahan School
The kids loved trouble the dog. One of our 4 year old youth started crying one day and started
saying, “I need my Trouble” so cute. All of our kids slept with their Trouble, some often stating
that he kept them safe at night. In their lives of chaos and uncertainty each child knew they were
given something special they could take with them wherever they went. All the kids want to say
Thank you! We really appreciated you coming and sharing Trouble with our kids.
–  K.Z., Family Teacher / Treatment Family Home, Boys Town New England

What makes Trouble stand out from all my other stuffed animals is the joy and happiness he
brings to ‘Troubled’ kids around the world … every time I see him it reminds me that he has
made someone else’s life amazing … and he is the cutest thing!
–  E.Q.C. age 12

Thought you may want to know that everyone in my son’s class was asked to bring in their
favorite book this week … and of course he brought in the book of Trouble … along with
Trouble himself … read it to him again last night… I am amazed how long (years) that he has
been so attached to the book and dog… can’t thank you enough.
–  W.Q.

Trouble is alive and well in Molly and Jack’s rooms – the magic continues and so do you.
–  P.M.

There are two Troubles that sit on top of either end of the couch in my office and they are like a
magnetic force for quite a handful of kids who come in here.  They usually don’t say anything
while doing it but tend to reach right for one (or some of the kiddos like to hold both at once) and
just hold him in their lap while we chat.”
–  K.G., Guidance Counselor

“My kiddos fell in love with Trouble the second they saw him. He helps them when they are
sad, angry, and just feeling yucky. There seems to be something meditative about holding him
that brings them back to their center. Sometimes they even talk to him and tell him what is
wrong – when they wouldn’t even tell me.” T.H.

First, I would like to thank you for creating Trouble! He is wonderful and truly is part of our family! Bella received Trouble on her first birthday as a birthday present from my mom. From the moment Bella saw him sitting on top of a gift basket wrapped in clear cellophane, she could not take her eyes or hands off of him. Almost seven years later, Trouble still goes to bed with Bella every night, he has gone to school with her (but only on show and tell days), and he has proven to be an excellent traveler! Trouble truly is part of our family. Even though Bella is getting older, Trouble remains by her side. There is just something remarkably calming and comforting about that little dog. As far as Bella is concerned, her Trouble is the one and only!
–  J.F. Educator

In August, my daughter saw Trouble in a store in Chatham, MA. and fell in love with it.  But the
store owner said it was not for sale but had been lent to him for a charity event.  My question is,
is there a store/hospital in Manhattan, NYC that carries it?
–  Pound Ridge, NY.

Also, I wanted to let you know that Kyle had to bring in his favorite book yesterday for school. 
Guess what he picked … you got it?  The Trouble book!
– S.H.

Is Trouble The Dog an Angel in stuffed animal guise?  Only the attitude of childlike wonder can
answer these questions!
–  S.L.S.

Trouble has hope in him and he wags his tail when you hug him.
–  Maya

When times get hard, all you need is love!  Trouble is full of love and ready for you!  When you
need love you can just grab Trouble and cuddle.  You can tell him how you feel and he’ll always
agree.
–  Cheyenne

The only consistency in their lives was their toy dog, “Trouble.” Every night, we read the
Trouble book and talked about how good times were around the corner. Trouble traveled with the
kids between homes and on vacations. My son asked me to read the book to his first grade class.
He wanted everyone to know about his friend Trouble.
– S.H.

We are all doing ok. Happy summer is here.  My son still sleeps with Trouble..and picked
Trouble out of many, many other loved stuffies to come with him on our trip to the shore.  The
house is still in his room…he doesn’t put him in it very often…mostly just hangs out on his bed
with the others.
– P.C., Newtown, CT

As a practicing Dermatologist on the North Shore, I sometimes treat children who might be
fearful before their procedure.  We have Trouble the plush Dog in our office so children can relax
and give him a hug.  We also have Bessie, our 150 pound Bernese Mountain Dog, who visits the
office with my wife.  Right before Christmas, we had a child who was upset.
Bessie perked up her ears, gently picked up a Trouble Dog in her mouth, and put it right into the
child’s lap.  It was amazing.  I had heard Trouble had a little spirit of his own going on … and
now I’ve seen it with my own eyes.
–  M.L.

“Trouble The Dog sits in a corner of my bedroom.  When I come home after a tough day I
always find myself looking right into that soulful face of his and I can’t help but smile.  On more

than one occasion I’ve picked him up for a good long hug and have to say I feel better.  Isn’t that
amazing?  I love Trouble.”
–  S.B.

My son has had Trouble since he was a baby and still sleeps with him every night (he’s 6 1/2
now). He calls him “Babu” and sniffs his ear! We LOVE Trouble in our house, Thank you!!!!
–  E.T.

Congratulations each of you has done much to make kids and older people happy and
comfortable. We like you telling us to get tough when we are going through something that is
difficult. Trouble understands problems and he is right by your side. Keep up the good work and
have a blessed Christmas.
–  C.R.

We gave two of your doggies at Christmas & they are out there doing their mission with some
wonderful little girls we know. Funny thing, as many grown ups want Trouble as kids. This one
is for an adult who needs a friend.
–  S.H.

My family attended the Trouble the Dog event that was held in Newtown.  Our family was
directly impacted by the events of 12/14.  My son, age 8, and my daughter, age 6, both have had
struggles since then but have found comfort with Trouble.  In particular my daughter has used
Trouble on a number of occasions to tell her worries to him when she didn’t want to talk to me.  I
have found her on several occasions snuggled up in bed whispering to him.  Both children spent
a lot of time decorating Trouble’s doghouse and both have them in their bedrooms now.  Thank
you for bringing this wonderful source of comfort to my family and to Newtown.
–  J.B.

My children met Trouble when we were lucky to hear a reading in person from Sheila Duncan. 
We brought Trouble home with us and they both find him so comforting. My son reaches for
Trouble whenever he is feeling nervous or sad and Trouble is always there to make him feel
better.
–  M.K.

No matter what I am doing, Trouble just seems to sit there with this look on his face like he
cares.  I love that.
–  A.D.

My son gave his little sister Trouble to sleep with for two nights yesterday because she had fallen
and was crying.  That girl did not let that dog out of her sight … and actually tried to sneak him
into her backpack this morning for camp.
–  D.C.

“I love Trouble because he is a good role model.  He is fluffy and that makes me feel loved!”
– C.C.

When my children are away for a few days I wear their Trouble medallion so I feel they are close
to my heart.
–  B.C.

Trouble is really smart.   He learns lessons from his friends.  He’s my friend too!
–  G.R., age 5

Trouble’s name makes me laugh because it makes me think of a dog who is naughty and is
always causing trouble.  But really, Trouble is such a good dog is anything but Trouble!
–  D.R., age 8

Trouble is the dog for the job when you’re in need of a good friend.  He can help you get through
anything, a break up, a fight with a friend or parent or a bad moment.  When you hold him he
wags his tail for you.  Trouble is your best friend.
–  Emma

Very nice to hear from you and your thoughtfulness in passing on a “little Trouble”. Your goal
was accomplished because I definitely smiled when I opened the envelope.  Thank you again for
Trouble, the coin is in my pocket at this moment.
–  R.M.

I noticed a comforting aura to Trouble. Ulysses liked to snuggle in with him and rested long
hours with Trouble at his side. Trouble was a steady and constant companion for Uly, and I know
that his influence in Uly’s recovery was powerful, yet unexplainable. But I believe the steadiness
of the influence is somehow behind the mystery.
– K.L.

I babysit for a family of three little girls. I have had them a long time. The oldest will be 8 years
old tomorrow. She is ( as her parents say) obsessed with your little “Trouble” character! She
takes him in her backpack to school. She sleeps with him every night. I could go on but I’m sure
you know what I mean! I was hoping you would please send her a message from “Trouble” when
you have a chance. She will be so excited!
–  K.S.

Hello, thank you for your wonderful storybook! My son has Autism and I worry about safety. It’s
nice to have a way to help him with learning about being safe. He said “Doggie!” And hugged
the toy, he really loves the pages with the traffic lights. If you like you may use our pictures of
Alex on your site. Thanks sincerely,
– Natasha

“I have seen firsthand the tremendous effect that Trouble the Dog has had on the patients in our
care.  Love, comfort, friendship and someone to hold are just some of the ways Trouble has
helped to bring joy to their lives.  To see a child that is fighting for their life smile, is truly
priceless and ultimately the key to overall healing.”
–  D.B., Vice President, Children’s Miracle Network, Los Angeles

I am an employee at a local bank with a long history in our town. I have the opportunity to
observe many of the goings on in the bank lobby, and am able to interact with many people. We
have “Trouble the Dog” in his dog house on a small table for the children to interact with, along
with the story of “Trouble the Dog” book. Many of our younger customers will run over to
“Trouble” even before going to the lollypops. It’s like they are coming to visit an old friend. On
numerous occasions I’ve read the story to a young customer while mom or dad has done their
banking. I also love the illustrations. I just wanted to thank you for this wonderful story and how
sometimes we all need a little reminder, to “Be Tough.”
–  D.C.

Children who struggle gain so much from reaching out to other children facing challenges.
Trouble the Dog is that special friend that allows children to do this.
–  Sue Todd, President and CEO Pathways for Children

Sheila Duncan and her niece, Kendra, introduced Trouble to CancerCare for Kids through a book
reading and signing in the fall of 2008.  Children and parents (all coping with a loved one’s
cancer diagnosis or death) connected immediately with the universal messages of empathy, love
and survival of the spirit that Trouble delivers.
–  J.L. Cancer Care for Kids, New York City

My son carried Trouble with him to his appointments the other day to show him off. He also put
1 sticker on his wheelchair and 1 on my car. He loves Trouble and he enjoyed coloring the
doghouse. He liked the story a lot and even gave Trouble a new brother : )
–  Amy

Trouble has helped one of our children lose the fear of going to bed and the other one is slowly
making strides… I’ll keep you posted. Thank you for helping our kids and all the kids of
Newtown… We love Trouble:-) My grand daughter has done very well with Trouble. Her nails
are growing a little bit. She doesn’t bite them as much and it used to be 24/7. She is sleeping
great so we think Trouble has helped her significantly. Thank you again for taking the time out to
bring me a Trouble before you went back home. She carries the house around with her to her
daddy’s house when she goes there on the weekends. She decorated the house and everything.
 Thanks again. It really has helped her.
–  L, CT

Trouble is still double in our house. Both my son (SHS 2nd grader) and his younger sister have
the pup. They did enjoy the story during the presentation at Newtown Healing Arts Center, but to
be honest, the house had found itself with the more lasting effect. As you may know, at Sandy
Hook, there has been a big movement in mini-rubber ducks. The police officers have been
passing them out to the kids after settling into the Monroe school. Trouble’s house has become
the ducks’ house (we have over 50 between them) in each of their rooms! Trouble still sleeps in
my daughter’s bed (she’s 5) along with the rest of the herd (I’m lucky I can find her in there), but
my son has stuck his old favorite for comfort and his Trouble sits with the sideline animals. She
was excited to show my brother just this weekend (when he asked about the house) and she

explained where it came from and pulled out the book and showed him the dog — and more
excited to say “see, and here is where the Trouble-lady <> signed it. Thank you for your
kindness.
–  A, Newton, CT 

My son, Justin is 2 1/2 years old.  I am glad to have shared my story about my “talks about
Trouble” and how Trouble helps keep Justin safe and unafraid of the dark at night.
–  K.P.

Trouble has touched so many lives, saved so many lives, loves unconditionally…just like you.
Our kids sleep with him every night and my Trouble is in my office.
–  B.C.