From the incredible to the uplifting, this heart-warming coffee-table style book highlights the dog-human bond. At the risk of sounding cliché, the stories will make you laugh, cry, and revel in utter amazement of our four-legged companions.
At roughly 4 pages per story and plenty of color photographs, this book offers a pleasurable quick read and has broad appeal to the general public, dog lovers, and veterinarians. Many of the stories feature rescue and service dogs that have done incredible things, from seizure detection to waking a family during a fire. Effie, a mixed breed rescue dog with no special training, detected early stage breast cancer in her owner. Willow learned to “read” simple written commands, such as sit and wave. A golden retriever, Rosie, became the first courthouse dog in New York State, where she accompanies children who are victims or witness to crimes during their testimonies. In addition, the book is peppered with interesting tidbits and facts such as the origin of certain breeds and famous dogs in history.
My only minor criticism is the inaccurate or oversimplified medical and disease references. For example, one story details a dog with “cerebral palsy” and her owner who styles himself as a self-taught clinical herbalist and healer.
Overall, this 160-page book would make a great addition to a veterinary waiting room or any dog lover’s coffee table.