1 comments about Green Water Dragons: Plus Sailfin Lizards & Basilisks (Advanced Vivarium Systems).

1. Tells you about different kind of Water Dragons and a whole lot of things that you probably already knew.

5 comments about Zen Dog.

1. This book juxtaposes photos of dogs with Zen quotations and sayings. The photos are quite good, and the selected text was chosen with care and thought.
   
   I'm not, however, able to make the required leap and see any real link between the words and images in this book. Perhaps I'm being way too literal here in wondering if dogs possess the sort of consciousness prone to contemplation, but I've never thought that Zen was prone to cuteness. Also, the typography used for some of the text pages is jarring, even irritating, when a simpler, cleaner arrangement would have sufficed.
   
   I appreciate the merits of Zen and of dogs but yoking the two together does not yield a compelling message or insights. I'd rather play with my dogs.



2. This slim volume contains some excellent photos of dogs with Zen and other Eastern-inspired quotes on the facing pages. For example, opposite a picture of a very majestic German Shepherd holding a leash in his mouth is the quote "Mastering others is strength, mastering yourself is true power." -Lao Tzu/Tao Te Ching. All quotes are attributed to their sources, and there is a list of the pictured dog breeds at the back (unfortunately the pages are not numbered). Some quotes are from the Tao, others from Buddha ("The fool who knows he is a fool is that much wiser. The fool who thinks he is wise is a fool indeed," opposite a quizzical looking mixed), Sanskrit, and individuals as diverse as Goethe, Rumi, Robert Persig, and the Dalai Lama.

   It is slightly annoying that some quotes are cited only to the names of other books (e.g.," Zen Flesh, Zen Bones," "The Little Zen Companion."). The book doesn't completely elucidate the dog-Zen equation in its brief introduction, but this is obviously more for dog lovers than for serious students of Eastern religion and philosophy. A few photos could have better arranged or focused (and once in a while a quote seems a bit forced onto the picture), but overall this is a funny, calming, and sweet book that will speak to your inner dog. The nicely formatted book has 107 pages (including photos), and can be perused for light humor as well as insight.




3. This book presents in both funny and profound pictures and Zen sayings the wonderful qualities all dogs possess. Kept me in the moment as I read it.



4. As every dog owner knows, dogs live completely in the moment. It seems entirely fitting for a book like this to reveal the members of the canine kingdom for the happy little Buddhas that they are, through 50 black-and-white photographs paired with quotes from various Zen sources. I also highly recommend another little book of Eastern wisdom titled "Open Your Mind, Open Your Life" by Taro Gold which is filled with hundreds of insightful quotes to inspire and enlighten.



5. This is a wondeful little book. I love the zen quotations, and the photos of dogs were lovely. I would have liked a bit more variety in the dog photos, and some of them seemed a bit contrived in order to match the quotes. All in all, it is a good book for anyone who likes dogs and is open to zen!

1 comments about My Loyal Friend: Our Pets Bring Out the Best in Us.

1. This is a lovely book. I will giving this book to all my animal loving friends. There is a poem and quote on every page about how special pets are in our lives. The illustrations are beautiful. Jim Daly's art really captured the soul of dogs and cats in this book. Don't buy just one book, you will want many to give away.

No comments about KISS Guide to Caring For Your Horse (KISS Guides).

3 comments about Guide to Owning a Dachshund (Re Dog Series).

1. Even though the front and back cover both show "housebreaking" as part of what is included in the book, it is not mentioned even once in the book. The book mostly provides a historical perspective and physical description of the breed. There is very little practical information on how to properly take care of a dachshund or how to train one.



2. I thought it gave me a very good idea of the breed help me decide what kind of dachshund I wanted. Now that I adopted one I'm looking for more indept information than this book can provide.



3. The photography in this book is a plus. It covers the different breeds of dachshunds. Helpful hints on toys also.

5 comments about Old English Sheepdogs (Complete Pet Owner's Manual).

1. This is an awesome little book for an awesome breed of dog. For its size, this book packs in a lot of really good information for the OES owner or potential owner. My OES is six months old now and I have found this book to hit on everything I needed to know to take care of this little guy. Responsible dog ownership entails a lot of work and this book will be a big help for anyone thinking of adopting this breed. It is a big help when you can get solid information from very experienced OES owners and breeders.
   
   The one thing I think the book should have emphasized a little bit more is the amount of time and work that has to be put into maintaining these dog's coats. It can be a little overwhelming when every time you take these guys for a walk in the woods you end up having to spend an hour brushing them out.
   
   This really is a great little book for anyone thinking of adopting this breed. I can speak from experience when I say these guys are not for the casual dog owner and they are not for everyone, and it will do the owner and the dog a great service to read this book so that you can get a head start on being a good OES owner. These guys are a lot of work but they are more than worth the effort.



2. In comparison to other books about specific breeds of dogs, this stands out as an exception. Full of history, care and disease information about Old English Sheepdog. I keep copy on my coffee table. Constantly looking up details as my OES grows through puppyhood.



3. As a proud owner of my 3rd OES, this is a wonderful basic book...written with humor...and some great photos!



4. As a O.E.S.owner and breeder I found this to be a MUST for any new O.E.S. owner. After reading the book cover to cover I believe it has the most accurate information and advise of any Dog book that I have ever read on O.E.S. My compliants to anyone to had anything to do with the information included in this book. Even a layman can tell that the photos were of well breed and well cared for animals.



5. According to the cover, this book was written as a "Pet Owner's Guide" and truly lives up to it's name! It is an excellent tool for anyone who is interested in purchasing an Old English Sheepdog puppy as a companion or family pet. There is also a section that informs the reader how to find an adult dog and explains about breed rescue programs.

   The author completely covers all aspects of Old English Sheepdog ownership, beginning with how to find the 'right' puppy or adult. It is written in a clear, easy to understand style while realistically informing the prospective owner of the "cons" as well as the "pros" of living with an Old English Sheepdog. The book contains many color photographs some of which illustrate the versatility of the breed.

   As an owner, breeder and exhibitor of Old English Sheepdogs for 27 years, I feel this book is a "MUST READ" for anyone considering this breed as a pet.

No comments about In Praise of Animals: A Treasury of Poems, Quotations, and Readings.

3 comments about The Savvy Samoyed.

1. As the Samoyed is considered the oldest of the domestic dog breeds, Pat's book tells their story from the beginning. This beautiful, intelligent breed needed their story told. "The Savvy Samoyed" tells it well, completely and with good humor. This should be required reading for anyone wanting a Northern breed of dog.



2. As the owner of one of Remington's boys, (Remington being the Savvy Samoyed on the cover) this book has helped us greatly. We have read and now use it as a reference to any questions or problems that may come up during this wonderful puppy stage. It covers everything from the time they are born, to breeding, to the time they become show dogs and beyond. The pictures are great and some are quite funny. This is a beautiful and loving breed of dog. It is very interesting to know what their background is and where they come from. Also interesting is the chapter on spinning with Samoyed hair. It is great that the book tells of how they speak and have a language all their own, and how helpful they are to people in need. It is quite clear the love and knowledge that Pat (the author) has for these dogs. Best wishes to you Pat, and best of luck to all Samoyeds and their owners.



3. Illustrated with fine black-and-white photographs, The Savvy Samoyed is an excellent introduction to the white, double-coated, plume-tailed, exceptionally intelligent Samoyed breed of dog. The Samoyed is a demanding canine breed, whose beautiful coat requires daily grooming, whose large stature requires a broad fenced-in area for exercise, and whose keen mind needs something to do all day - the Samoyed was originally bred as a working dog. Yet the rewards of love and companionship can be bountiful for those ready to devote the their time and energy to proper maintenance of this splendid breed. The Savvy Samoyed's chapters include information on the many different working careers the Samoyed can pursue, the mechanics of a dog show, and advice on overseeing Samoyed whelping. More than just another dog care book, the Savvy Samoyed is a superb tribute to this wonderful and gorgeous breed.

1 comments about The Simple Guide to Choosing a Dog (Simple Guide to...).

1. I really enjoyed this book. It's a great reference for selecting a dog that will fit your lifestyle and emotional needs. No fluff!!! And fun and easy to read.

5 comments about Tall Ears and Short Tales: Observations from the Barn.

1. This book is written with love, warmth and humor. I sometimes laughed, sometimes cried, but always realized the author's love of horses and her dedication to end horse slaughter. May God bless her for the work she's doing for all equine!



2. Join the author on her personal journey into the hearts and souls of neglected, abused, and unwanted animals. You'll meet lots of courageous horses looking for a second chance at life, and you'll also learn a little about a delightful Chocolate Lab who mothers horses, cats, and baby chicks.

   Knowledgeably written by Carol M. Chapman, owner of The Last Refuge, a sanctuary for horses and other assorted creatures no one else wanted. Tall Ears & Short Tales is a compelling and informative look at one of nature's wonderful and often terribly abused creatures - the horse - and the extremely dedicated people who rescue, rehabilitate, and provide sanctuary for them. Respect, humor, and thoughtful reflections upon the horses' point of view combine to make a thoroughly fascinating assortment of anecdotes from a wonderful writer and true animal lover.




3. This book is a "must read" for all animal lovers, and especially horse lovers. The author's warm style and insight into the minds of animals will draw you in and never let you go! "Horsey" people (of which I count myself one, according to the author's definition) will truly identify with the connection one feels with horses, and non-"horsey" people will get a wonderful taste of our side of the horse world.

   The author's natural, relaxed attitude toward animals is further reflected in her general philosophy toward family, relationships, and life in general. She makes you want to come and visit The Last Refuge and have a chat over coffee and perhaps muck a stall or two...




4. I have always been concerned about animals welfare. Especially cats. When I heard about Carol's book - I was only slightly interested. Boy!!! did I change my mind. I tried to read most of it on lunch hours but geeish... my eyes got red all the time-keep your Kleenex handy. Her style of writing puts you right there with the horse and feeling what he feels. It is extremely touching.

   I promise you that whether you have ever owned a horse (I have not) or rode a horse (I have only once) -- you WILL feel differently about them after this book. You will want to run and hug each and every one you see.

   It is easy reading - fun and touching. Interesting and joyful.
   I recommend it for all ages -- adults and children. This is a must have book!!!!! Give to your friends and relatives -- maybe we can all make a difference in horses lives and they in ours.




5. This book is wonderful. The writing style is easy to follow and it touches on the feelings and wonders of living with animals in a gentle, caring way.

   It's a must read for any horse or dog lover.