5 comments about The Well-Connected Dog: A Guide to Canine Acupressure.

1. This book contains very good information and is useful. It could be improved by adding an index, giving page numbers for specific techniques mentioned in the table of contents, and giving written descriptions of how to find the points. It is not possible to precisely pinpoint the acupuncture/pressure spot with just the dot on a dog diagram. There are some typos that should have been caught by the publisher. Over-all a useful book. I hope they come out with an updated edition that particularly contains an index.



2. My copy arrived earlier than expected, and in excellent condition. Kudos to [...].
   I have found the book to be easy to read, and the diagrams are very clear, and easy to understand.
   I have already tried some accupressure on my little schnanuzer, and noticed some improvementin her pain level.I hope to improve on this, as I get more proficient with practice.



3. I am thrilled with the book the service was great and the amount of information in this book is overwhelming.



4. Well researched, superbly written and easily understood by the beginner, this is the primer for all dog lovers who are striving to improve their animal's health.
   Traditional Chinese medicine is a difficult conceptfor most Westerners, and the authors explain the basic principles in a manner that allows we "newbies" to start affecting change in their dog's health immediately after reading their book.
   I highly recommend this book to those who are searching for a more holistic approach to their animal's health care.



5. I found this guide to acupressure for pet dogs to be clear and easy to use. It is the only book of its type that I could find, targeted for beginners. I especially liked the lists of specific conditions or problems, and how to treat them. One of my dogs was treated for a hot spot using this book. The relief he got was immediate and evident to everyone in the room. Another dog has benefited from acupressure treatment for joint disease. Both my dogs and I have enjoyed a closer, more satisfying relationship using regular acupressure techniques described in this book. People with an open mind, willing to try something different for their pets, will love it.

5 comments about Bad Dogs Have More Fun: Selected Writings on Family, Animals, and Life from The Philadelphia Inquirer.

1. The greedy, seedy editor and publisher of the Philadelphia Inquirer bypassed John Gorgan and put this book together without his knowledge or consent. They boldly capitalized on John's popularity and ability to sell books to pimp out his previous works for their sole monetary gain. Perhaps worse, they used Marley's name and a picture of a little puppy to pull in dog lover's around the world. How low is that? How can these sleazy people sleep at night? If they had done the courtesy of collaborating with John Grogan, they may have seen this book reach stratospheric success. Instead, they circumvented him. They cut Grogan out completely, yet marketed his name, so that they didn't have to share the royalties with him. Yes, they technically own rights to Grogan's columns, but it was the wrong and disrespectful thing to do, and they know it. I urge you not to compensate them any further. Do not put more money in their pockets. Refuse to buy this book!!!



2. This book is a compilation of Grogan's articles from the Philly Inquirer. It is a very enjoyable and quick read but it has little to do with dogs. If you're looking for a book about the bond between humans and their 4-legged friends, consider looking elsewhere. If you're looking for a series of lighhearted shortstories about Grogan's life and his observations about the world around him, pick it up.



3. I should have read the reviews, then I would have known this was not a book with loving stories of dogs... it's just collection of writings by the man who wrote the Marley and Me book (and that book, while well written, is NOT a book for dog lovers either -- it details the stupid things humans do when they do not understand how to properly care for and train their dogs). This book is so bad I threw it out. Don't waste your money on it.
   If you want a lovely, loving book about a dog/human life together read Amazing Gracie -- that is a great book about a great dog and her great people.



4. Was disappointed in this book. What little it had about dogs was good but the title is very misleading. His newspaper columns are without a doubt very entertaining but the book is not about it's title.



5. This is a very listless collection of newspaper columns that completely undermines the talent shown by Grogan in his memoir. Don't waste your money on it. None of the articles are long enough to give a fully rounded picture of their topic, and few tug at your heartstrings. Many are almost embarrassing attempts at humor. "Heavy-handed" is the phrase that comes to mind.

5 comments about Howl: A Collection of the Best Contemporary Dog Wit.

1. This is supposed to be a collection of the best witty stories about dogs. It's not even close. I am a sucker for dogs and have lived with rescue dogs since the 70's so I am a prime consumer if this book was actually what it was supposed to be. I defy anyone to find a humorous passage in any story in the book. The tales are drab and sodden. Worse many of them are stories by people who don't know how to take care of dogs. One is about a house full of college students who of course eventually go their own ways and leave the dog with someone's mom. This is a great way to make sure shelters remain overcrowded. Many of the stories have the dogs running loose. Another receipe for disaster. So the stories are worse than simply lacking in wit, they are tales of what not to do with your dog. Pitiful.



2. The best collection of dog anecdotes I've read
   
   Lord Byron was right about dogs possessing all of the human virtues without their corollary vices: beauty without vanity, intelligence without conceit, courage without ferocity and strength without insolence. We as a species are lucky that our canine quadruped friends, clearly superior beings, have anything at all to do with us bumbling, high-strung, self-important two-leggers. And you can add to Lord Byron's litany, humor without sarcasm. Yes, doggies do indeed have a sense of humor, not too terribly different from our own.
   
   This is without doubt the best collection of dog anecdotes I've ever read, from the people who publish the wonderful "Bark" magazine (whose motto, by the way, is "Dog is my co-pilot").
   
   While all of the stories in this delightful anthology are captivating, my personal favorites are John Glaser's "Better Than You," Margaret Cho's "Dog Whores" and "Strange Bedfellows" by the irrepressible Kinky Friedman.
   
   No doubt, some 100 centuries ago when the first lupine proto-dogs got together and noted that - lacking opposable thumbs - they were most unlikely to evolve a technological civilization, a group decision was taken to hitch their wagon to the hominid star, thus ensuring a future of quality veterinary care, three squares a day and climate control. Not to mention, worshipful adoration!
   
   Smart, very smart, critters these loveable mutts. Perhaps, uncounted eons hence, when they become the dominant species on the planet, they'll be publishing anthologies of "funny human" stories. I wouldn't be a bit surprised.
   
   This is a wonderful book, howlingly funny, and I'd recommend it to any Dog person!
   
   As the immortal Groucho Marx once said, "Outside of a dog, a book is a man's best friend. Inside of a dog, it's too dark to read."



3. While I did not read "Bark", I very much enjoyed "Howl". It is a compilation of humorous animal stories from comedians, writers, actors, etc. Nice, easy (and very funny) reading!



4. The editors at the Bark sure do have an eye for the best dog writing out there. This collection was very very funny and would make a great christmas gifts for dog lovers who love a laugh. My favorite pieces were from Lee Harrington, Neal Pollack, and Kinky Friedman. The other anthology by The Bark, Dog is My Co-Pilot, was more soulful than this book. But this one is funnier! SO you need both. Let's hope they do more dog anthologies in the future!



5. Howl is a terrific ode to Man's best friend...and a reminder that in this cold, dark world, a true friend can be found...Writer's from all around the country share warm and witty musings on their relationships with that one creature that gives and gives a "howl"...terrific, well done and a good read on the beach or before bed...M. Grasso Santa Monica, CA

5 comments about Tails Are Not for Pulling (Best Behavior).

1. My child has special needs. We had great luck with the hands are not for hitting book so when I saw this one I knew Diezle, our golden retriever would appreciate it ! Well it did not work out in his favor ! I am sorry to report that my son loved reading this book but was compelled to pull the dogs tail even more immediatly after reading the book, every time ! I think it is well written but perhaps not for ever childs mind. We have since donated the book to our school's library.



2. Great gift for families with pets. Many other books like this for toddlers.



3. Really nice book to teach little ones about their pets. It has a great section at the end with advice for parents.



4. I'm not sure why, but I expected a little more from this book. The messages are there -- very basic stuff. Unfortunately, it didn't hold the attention for either of my toddlers. Cute graphics, though.



5. Wow! This book is a great, easy-to-read way to start teaching respect for animals to children. My son didn't understand that his chasing the cat or teasing the dog were not OK, and that animals have feelings, too, until we read this book together. Now the title is a slogan we use around the house to remind him to be nice to our pets. He loves the detailed illustrations - there are surprises on every page - and we love the easy language to read together. This is a great book for teaching children how to love and respect - and understand - animals better.

5 comments about The Ugly Pugling: Wilson the Pug in Love.

1. Perfect gift not only for Pug lover but for all dog lovers. This is a sweet tale of pure love...the kind only dogs know and give and the kind we only aspire to share. There is a message in this simple story to implore the heart to cherish innocence and see the world through "dog eyes."



2. This book tells a poignant story about unrequited love that is appropriate for both adults and kids alike. I gave this book to several children as a holiday gift and their moms all concur that the kids just adore it and want to have it read to them over and over.
   The humor is infectious and the photography superb, as always. We'll be keeping our eyes out for the next adventure!
   P.S. Wilson the Pug is the only author my pugs will read....



3. This reviewer recently adopted a Basset-mix puppy (that's him on my profile page) from a shelter/rescue (and encourages all of you reading this to consider giving a rescue/shelter dog a home, too!) It appears that my puppy is a Basset/Coonhound mix. Which brought to mind the question - how, logistically, could a Basset and Coonhound mix? You will be pleased to know that this fun photo story does NOT answer that question.
   
   Once upon a time, Wilson the Pug, descendant of Pug-tzu, "author" and star of The Tao of Pug, fell in love with Hedy, who was "unlike the other pugs I'd met before. With her big floppy ears, prominent muzzle and huge paws, she was a vision of lovliness." Time passed. And Wilson saw his love no more. He went to her house. And " "a huge dog, the biggest I'd ever seen!" appears at the door. Oh My! A Mastiff! But gazing into her big brown eyes, "I got a whiff of her sweetly biscuited breath." It's Hedy stuff! She isn't a homely pug - but a marvelous mastiff!
   
   Our hero and heroine may be parted by humans - unless the dogs come up with a Taoist plan! The words and photos along the way will charm children and dogs of all ages.
   
   My original quandry remains unanswered after the Afterward by Wilson: "Fortunately, I was a neutered pug, because Hedy and I felt strongly that the world did not need a new breed of mastug or pugstiff."
   /TundraVision, Amazon Reviewer



4. Nancy Levine never ceases to amaze me with her awesome photographs of the pugs (and a new "guest" dog) and her great stories. This book is perfect for any pug or other dog lover, adult and child alike. It is rare that books come out to satisfy both the adult and the child and this is one of those exceptional books.
   
   I highly recommend this book and the other books in the "Wilson the Pug" series.



5. Wilson and Nancy write wonderful books. Lots of love and time go into each one that they have written. My Little Luci Lu says Puggy paws up for The Ugly Pugling and the other books, too! **Smiles** We are looking forward to reading your next book and thank you for keeping Puggy smiles on our faces.

5 comments about Guide to Owning a Ragdoll Cat.

1. It's a very handy small book, but fully informative, having plenty of super cute photos. If you are thinking of buying a ragdoll cat, it will be perfect for you.



2. Excellent reference for Ragdoll owners. This book is so comprehensive you won't need anything else. All you need to know about your Ragdoll and more.



3. I bought this book last week, and have had a lot of fun reading it! We added a Ragdoll cat to our family last year, and I had been looking for a good book about Ragdolls! It gives history of the breed's origin, the special nature of the breed, etc. It is just what I thought I was buying. If you have a Ragdoll, or are planning to get one, this will be a fun and useful tool for you!



4. A wonderful amount of information in a little pocket guide ... I enjoyed this book and found it very useful. It has been difficult to find much information on this wonderful breed, and Ms. Nelson has done a great job trying to impart as many facts as possible while keeping the book a manageable size.



5. Whether a Ragdoll is not yet the most enchanting part of your family, or you are already in love head over heels with three or four of these most precious of felines, Susan Nelson's "Guide To Owning A Ragdoll Cat" is the perfect selection for you. Susan knows what she's talking about when describing the soft sweet Ragdoll personality since she's owned by three of these angels herself. The photos are delightfully crisp and clear, picturing a full range of Ragdoll colors and patterns, even the relatively new lynx and flame... and bring out the devastatingly blue eyes that will hypnotize you as if by magic. Susan makes excellent points about the absolute importance of finding a responsible ethical breeder, and makes clear that meeting several breeders and several visits to catteries is highly desirable. She also points out how large some of the Ragdolls can become, and how important it is to properly support their bodies when picked up. Her description of how to make your house Ragdoll friendly (safe), and how to choose toys is invaluable. She stresses the importance of having a scratch tree available. Care of the Ragdoll's health is discussed in detail, from bathing to grooming to dental hygiene to trimming nails... She discusses how to choose a vet, an extremely important topic, vaccinations, spaying and neutering, common feline illnesses... What to feed baby... Bringing Baby home... going on vacation... breeding, showing... I can't think of a SINGLE THING that she neglected to discuss that would be of consequence to anyone interested in Ragdolls. I am so enthused about this book. I wish I had seen it before I spent so much time trying to decide about bringing a Ragdoll home... and it has cleared up several questions I had once I was owned by my Ragdolls. This book is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!! Susan also publishes a wonderful Ragdoll calendar every year...

5 comments about Dogs I Have Met: And the People They Found.

1. Ken's stories remind me of Dr. James Herriot's awesome tales about his life as a country vet in Britain. (All Creatures Great and Small, and others)
   
   Ken's books are also heartwarming and for anyone who loves animals.



2. Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/RIJ2ZYSOJDATB This isn't really a review, it's just the only way I could find to share this great video that was created at a party I had for the release of Dogs I Have Met. Among the many dogs who attended: Trap Jack and Dag, both of whom are featured in the book.



3. and an American Pit Bull Terrier lover in particular, I have a special place in my heart for Ken Foster and his experiences. He is not afraid to stand up for what he believes and take corrective action for injustices he observes. He is a patriot for the APBT breed. This book is very well written and brought tears to my eyes on more than one occasion. Bravo, Ken!



4. Ken Foster has again produced an entertaining look at the people he has encountered in his interesting dog-filled life. His writing style is unique and one to be emulated. The small volume is a quick read. American Pit bulls have a great advocate in him as he gently but forcefully defends them.



5. I truly appreciated this book specifically because of the strong focus on decriminalizing the american pit bull breed. It is so sad that this wonderful, loving breed of dog has been so persecuted due solely to the inhumanity of humans. Dogs are one of God's greatest creations, and humans have exploited, abused, and mistreated them to such unbelieveable levels. Thanks to the author for his wonderul work. It is a short easy read, but shares valuable insight.

5 comments about Just Gus: A Rescued Dog and the Woman He Loved.

1. This was a nice read but was disappointed it was not more story than pictures. Too high a price for no more story.



2. This book, although sad, makes you feel so good. The devoted love an an unwanted dog helps a dying woman to get through her last two years of her battle with cancer. Written well and with photographs.



3. I absolutely loved this book. It was a quick read, but very moving. Another perfect example of how therapeutic and healing having an animal in your life can be. Bravo!!



4. This was a very sweet, compelling story. But I read the book in a metter of 20 minutes, way too short! My fault for not reviewing the number of pages.



5. Not many pages but what the book says is very powerful. It makes you wonder how much fate and destiny really does factor in our lives. Hope was given to a woman in the form of a dog and hope was given to a dog by someone who I believe was meant to be the one. They found and needed each other is a under statement. The story will make you laugh and cry. Worth every dime and I would recommend it to anyone.

5 comments about Rabbits for Dummies.

1. Perfect for someone who has never had a rabbit. We have learned much!



2. As with all of the "Dummies" publication, this book provides very thorough, elementary information for would-be rabbit families. The imformation is broken down into chapters for ease of use. It offers insight into these amazingly complex animals, their care and distinct personalities.



3. This book covers every aspect of bunny care. Very thorough. I recommend it.



4. This is a good book and seems to have a great deal of information, but I felt there was a definite bias against people who raise rabbits as livestock and (shockingly) actually eat them. This is a book solely for pet owners, not for 4-H students, FFA students, homesteaders. I understand that rabbit fanciers probably don't want and shouldn't have to be confronted by instructions how to slaughter and dress "Fluffy", but I wish there had been something that stated that this was a "pet book" somewhere on the book's cover before I spent $17 on it. We have a loved pet rabbit, but we also have meat rabbits. If you want to learn about rabbits as pets, this is probably a good book for you. If you want a book about raising rabbits commercially or harvesting them for meat, you might look into Storey's Guide to Raising Rabbits by Bob Bennett. He has had 5 rabbitries and has raised rabbits for six decades.



5. I've owned two rabbits before and I was shocked to find out how much has changed since I last owned a rabbit. The information I found in it was right-on. The behavioral problem trouble-shooting chapter is a bit slim, and the disease/health problems list leaves a bit to be desired. But the overall care chapters are superb and up-to-date on recently accepted practices.

5 comments about Childproofing Your Dog: A Complete Guide to Preparing Your Dog for the Children in Your Life.

1. This book is a must have for parents expecting their first child with a dog in the home. We have a very hyper and loveable lab mix mut. We were concerned that he would barrel over our child and destroy her toys. This book does a good job of training the dog owner on how to behave, and has great techniques to work with the dog before bringing baby home. Our baby is now 20 months old and loves her dog. He has never chewed on her toys or given us a reason to feel uncomfortable. Not to say he isn't still hyper, he is, but he knows to avoid her. She is able to love on him, take his toys, and pet him. He behaves beautifully. He always barrels through the back door, and she gets such a kick out of it that she stands in the middle of the doorway and lets him blow past her while she giggles at him. I have recommended this book to all of my friends with dogs that are expecting a new baby.



2. The author dows a good job explaining ways to chilproof your dog and also gives many tips as to how to train your dog good habits in general. I just wish eveything was easy to execute.



3. If you already own a dog and have given them any sort of obedience training, most of this book is either irrelevant or redundant to what you probably already know. Mr. Kilcommons essentially gives you tips on how to have a well-behaved dog, then applies those lessons to having children in the house. While these are important lessons, his approach is neither unique nor revolutionary. And this is a teeny tiny book! Barely 80 pages, I read it in less than an hour, skimming much of the early sections (choosing the right dog for you, whether to adopt a puppy or an older dog etc. - chapters completely irrelevant for someone who's trying to train the dog they already HAVE rather than the one they don't own YET.) It wasn't a bad book, but there were very few tips that I will find useful in introducing our dogs to our soon-to-arrive child.



4. This is a short, easy read with good, common sense advice concerning dogs and children. The book covers how to introduce your dog to children, toddlers, babies, etc. It's worth a read for anyone who is expecting as well.



5. I thought this book was good, but not great. I liked that it had ways to introduce a dog into a family with kids, as well as introducing a new baby into the home with a dog. I felt this book was for a dog that hasn't had any, or very much formal training. My dogs are trained; I've just slacked on the follow through. Good book, just didn't work for my needs.