I strongly believe that the more research we do in advance, the better choices we’ll make when it comes time for choosing our dog. The following books about dogs will help you learn about choosing an older dog, training your dog, and caring for your new dog’s health.
Best books to help you choose a humane society dog
Books for training your new (and older) dog
Books about caring for your dog, and keeping him healthy
Books about the many breeds of dogs, and about the art of dog breeding
Great books for kids who love dogs
Shelter
Dogs: Amazing Stories of Adopted Strays
Peg Kehret
Grade 3-6-Written with affection and conviction, these anecdotes chronicle
the lives of eight unwanted strays who were dumped at animal shelters, many
at the Humane Society of Seattle/King County in Washington State. After
their adoptions, these dogs went on to accomplish great things and changed
the lives of their loving owners. Each story begins with a black-and-white
photo of the canine and proud human companion, and closes with a short section
on a topic of related interest.
The writing is clear and straightforward, letting the drama and pathos
of the dogs' triumphs, and the owners' dedication, carry the stories.
It is hard to remain unmoved by the tale of Kirby, a small terrier mix, who was left for six days in an apartment when his elderly owner died in the hospital. Hostile and unapproachable, he was scheduled to be put to sleep until he was asked to go for a walk. Recognizing the word, he came out of his shell and became once again the loving dog he had always been. Joey became a service dog for his owner, who had multiple sclerosis, and learned to open doors, pick up items, and eventually served as an ambassador for a nonprofit organization that promotes the human-health benefits of keeping pets.
These short stories should appeal to reluctant readers because of their
length and irresistible subject matter, they will be popular with animal
lovers, and they may even inspire families to adopt a shelter dog. Jennifer
Ralston, Harford County Public Library, Belcamp, MD
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.