Since its first publication in 2001, "How Could You?" has touched the hearts of hundreds of thousands of animal lovers. It is a hard piece to read - even after reading it dozens of times, I find the tears flowing.

Indeed, at one time, a DJ in Toronto literally stopped traffic with his emotional reading of "How Could You?," as heart-stricken drivers pulled to the side of the road to wipe away the tears that blinded them. That scenario has been repeated with much the same result in other cities, over the years.

"How Could You?" has been translated into at least 25 different languages, and has been called the most published animal-related essay in the world. Workers in animal shelters post it conspicuously for the benefit of "owners" who would "surrender" their pets, and it is widely circulated by email and on bulletin boards.

It is not widely known, but "How Could You?" was inspired by a Basset Hound named Holly Golightly, who was rescued by Jim Willis on the day she was to have been put to death in a "kill shelter." She was "surrendered" by her owner because of an intended move.

- Franny Syufy

Jim Willis has been a frequent contributor of articles to About Cats Guest Forum. A review of his new book, "Pieces of my Heart" can be read here.