Marshall the Miracle Dog made a lasting impression Thursday in Houston.
From stops at the animal shelter to the school district, the dog whose story of abuse and overcoming neglect have been portrayed in a book and movie was the center of attention. He and his owner, Cyndi Willenbrock, spent more than two hours meeting the public and sharing Marshall’s story.
Marshall’s first appearance was at the Bark Plaza Pet Hotel, where he was swarmed by hugs and pets of small children. Cyndi read the children’s book of Marshall’s rescue among 60 dogs from an abandoned property before touring the facility. They also visited the adjacent Animal Shelter of Texas County.
While on the grounds, Marshall met Mya, who like himself was rescued from an abusive situation. Mya was rehabilitated by the animal shelter afte being shot in the head and left for dead.
The next stop was Houston Elementary School, where Marshall made a quick visit to the Destiny Wilson’s first-grade classroom before a 45-minute assembly in the gymnasium. Marshall laid at the feet of several students as Cyndi shared his story and read the book. The movie trailer of the upcoming film based on Marshall’s life was also shown.
After the assembly, one of the Humane Society workers who helped rescue Marshall and cared for him after his amputation was reunited with the canine. Pattie Roehers, who is now an employee at Landmark Bank in Houston, introduced herself to Cyndi and spent a few moments with Marshall.
Marshall and Cyndi have visited more than 250 schools, including Mountain Grove on Wednesday, to share his story of courage and the will to overcome abuse and neglect. His visited to Texas County was a partnership through the Missouri University Extension and the Houston Herald.
- Public appearance at 9 a.m. at The Animal Shelter of Texas County and the Bark Plaza Pet Hotel.
- Assembly at 10 a.m. at Houston Elementary School.