Patrick McDonnell‘s Mutts is one of the most popular comic strips in America and around the world, based on its gentle humor and writer-artist Patrick McDonnell‘s clear love for all living creatures, and it has also led to several book compilations and original projects. (I myself have a great adoration for The Gift of Nothing.) Unfortunately, one of the strip’s prime inspirations, the real-life Earl, passed away recently, after more than 18 years with the McDonnell family. The artist suggests that those who wish to show their sympathy or honor Earl’s memory can donate to Kindred Spirits, a program of the Humane Society; contributions will be applied to the Society’s Companion Animals fund.
(via Newsarama; photo by Kim Levin, illustration by McDonnell)