Connie’s Book Club—Spring 2016

Miss Moon

Wise Words from a Dog Governess

Janet Hill

It is simply impossible not to be delighted by Miss Moon. With charm in spades, this picture book pairs author and illustrator Janet Hill’s elegantly whimsical artistry with her winning narrative about a dog governess' first placement, on a small island off the coast of France. There Miss Moon cares for 67 dogs of all shapes, sizes, colours, and personalities, resulting in the 20 most valuable lessons shared in this book. Some lessons are practical, some playful, and some a bit unusual, but all offer wisdom on growing up happy, healthy and well-mannered, the advice pertaining to kids, adults, and dogs alike. Our personal favourite: “Be true to your adventurous spirit.” This book is sure to capture the hearts and imaginations of all who read it.

The Pug List

A Ridiculous Little Dog, a Family Who Lost Everything, and How They All Found Their Way Home

Alison Hodgson

This heartwarming true story concerns a family who, after losing everything in a fire set by an arsonist, pick up the pieces of their life with the help of a wheezing, un-housetrained rescue Pug. The family’s sense of security tops the list of things lost in the fire, and though adopting a former puppy mill dog while in the process of rebuilding from the ground up may seem like a questionable idea at best, it turns out to be exactly what this family needs. An immensely likable story about family in all its forms and the joy and even blessings to be found in life’s struggles.

Mountain Tails

Janne Siegel

In this collection of animal interviews, Janne Siegel unearths some surprising details about the Routt County Pets. Food fetishes, pet-peeves, even advice for animals moving into their new forever homes—it’s all here in this amusing peek into the minds of these pets. The generous animal interviewees chose to forgo payment and have instead requested that a portion of the proceeds be donated to the Humane Society, so your copy supports animal rescue.

Practical Handbook of Veterinary Homeopathy

Wendy Thacher Jensen, D.V.M.

The Practical Handbook of Veterinary Homeopathy: Healing Our Companion Animals from the Inside Out is a handbook for any animal guardian who would like to avoid, reduce, or eliminate their animal’s dependence on medication. The author, long time veterinarian Wendy Jensen, was inspired to change her veterinary medicine practice after seeing the very real results yielded by a homeopathic approach to healing. This essential guide teaches you how to observe and evaluate your dog (or cat) and share these findings with your vet so you can work together to keep your special companion healthy.

Forever Home

April Spaniol

In this charming children's book, Pico the Greyhound receives some shocking news: she’s headed to a new home. Change can be so scary! But Pico learns how to live in a new place, meets a new friend, and discovers what it means to be truly home. Share this lovely book with the children in your life and show them change, though sometimes frightening, can be a force for good.

Earnest

Kristin von Kreisler

This richly insightful novel of matters of the heart—both human and canine—tells an uplifting story of love, loyalty, and new beginnings. Earnest, a sweet, eager-to-please yellow Labrador Retriever, is adopted from a shelter by Anna and Jeff. The happy threesome bond instantly, but when Jeff makes a decision that loses Anna’s trust, it’s up to Earnest to bring the three of them back together. A great read for all those who know the power of pets!

Old Faithful

Dogs of a Certain Age

Pete Thorne

In this heart-string-tugging collection of photographs and stories, photographer Pete Thorne captures the beauty of dogs who are well loved and well on in years. Old Faithful: Dogs of a Certain Age was born when Thorne started photographing older dogs only to discover that their faces contained more life, joy, and wisdom than he had anticipated. In this beautiful book Thorne gives each dog the space to tell his or her individual story. The resultant 75 stories and photos of puppy mill rescues, adoption triumphs, and lifelong friends are a lovely tribute to our most stalwart companions, reminding us just how special our aging pals are.

Chicken Soup for the Soul

My Very Good, Very Bad Dog

Amy Newmark

Our dogs are complex creatures and sometimes their bizarre behaviour is so amusing it warrants a wider audience. Chicken Soup for the Soul: My Very Good, Very Bad Dog is a collection of 101 funny, heartwarming, and sometimes mind-boggling stories about our best friends and their (mis)adventures. You'll laugh, cry, and probably want to give your special pal a hug!