pet books: May 2008 Archives

If you ask me what my favorite adorable dog breeds are I'd have to say Golden Retriever, Samoyed, Husky and German Shepherd. But then again I'm biased because I had all those dog breeds and I have very fond memories with all of them!!

Rachael Hale's book 101 Adorable Dog Breeds is a tool in helping potential owners pick the breed that is perfect for them. Learn about your new puppy or your old friend by reading about the origin, temperment, and maintenance that various dog breeds require.

Rachael Hale is an esteemed photographer who has captured the essence of and unique personality of each breed. Each page brings out the endearing qualities of each dog using unique poses and props that might just melt your heart. Along with photographs of the animals the book describes the traits that make each individual dog unique. From the handsome (as described in the book) Bernese Mountain Dog to the courageous Japanese Spitz the book might just make you scratch your head as to which breed to adopt.

And yes I say adopt! And if you'd like to learn more about breed rescue organizations the AKC has an extensive list of breed rescue organizations.

I don't always read MUTTS but whenever I do come across the strip it warms my heart. I just got this book in the mail and I must say it is a very cute and unique way to raise awareness for the millions of shelter animals out there that need to find loving homes.

Patrick McDonnell, author of the celebrated comic strip helps give the animals a voice in Shelter Stories: Love. Guaranteed (Andrews McMeel Publishing, $16.95). The book features an inspiring introduction by Wayne Pacelle, President and CEO of The Humane Society of the United States and combines more than 100 of Patrick's best "Shelter Stories" strips alongside 70 candid photos and shelter stories of real animals. Not only will you see dogs and cats, but you'll read stories of rabbits, guinnea pigs, ferrets and birds and the kindhearted souls that saved them. The book also features a reference guide filled with tips for adopting the right pet and a variety of useful links that encourage readers to, as Patrick puts it, "adopt some love today."

And as you know you can buy the book in the usual places.