Reading Rescue, August 2009:
A Tribute to Dogs
 By Anne Allen and Mary Anne Fulmer
Each month we at Reading Rescue review a different genre
(categories) of materials. This month we are reviewing materials about
man's or woman's best friends, dogs. It is also a tribute to my best
friend, Sam. Almost everyone has had a great dog in their lives or has
at least been acquainted with one. They bring so much joy and love!
If you are in the market for a new best friend, a good
beginning would be to read Brian Richard's, A Pocket Guide to Dogs
(636.7 RIC). This author provides a brief biography of each dog. Always
do some research before purchasing or adopting a dog. Each breed is
different and that should make all the difference in your decision. I'm
a tiny bit prejudice but a Bichon Frise will make wonderful pet!
A fine book to read about dogs is Chicken Soup for
the Dog Lovers Soul by Jack Canfield and several other authors
(636.7 CHI). One story in the book is about an intimidating Doberman who
becomes a "mother" to an orphaned duck. Each story will inspire dog
lovers to rejoice in the unique bond they share with their canine
companions.
If for some reason you are having problems with your new
friend, Randy Grim has written Don't Dump Your Dog (636.7088
CHI), and it may contain the remedy you need to help. The book's
foreword is written by former M*A*S*H star Loretta Swit, actress and
animal lover. She gives a good summary of some of the stories found in
the book. The author gives some practical advice and hints for managing
dog behavior problems. He keeps it witty but ever so wise. One point he
makes is to not just look at the cute puppy but to remember that puppy
will grow! Be sure of what you are bringing home!
John Grogan's Marley & Me (636.752 GRO) is about
a Labrador Retriever. Labs are usually even-tempered, calm and reliable,
but Marley is the exception. Once he entered the Grogan household, life
was never the same. Jenny Grogan became so stressed. Marley swallowed an
18-karat gold necklace and was even kicked out of obedience school. She
ordered John to get rid of Marley. The antics of Marley are told with
great humor and affection. If you love dogs, you will really enjoy this
book. Keep the tissues handy!
Jeffrey M. Masson's Dogs Never Lie About Love
(636.7 MAS) is written in an attempt to discuss what it means to think
and feel like a dog. When he decided to write this book, he was dog
free. That was soon remedied and even though his :evidence" is mainly
speculative and anecdotal, he does offer a good discussion on the
subject. Some may disagree with his conclusions but the book is
insightful about our friends.
Did you know that dogs can read? Bonnie Bergin's
Teach Your Dog to Read (636.7 BER) provides some concrete advice on
teaching your ordinary dog to read. One question the book does answer is
why is it necessary to teach your dog to read? She explains the skills
needed so that your dog can read why it is not for him to eat your
turkey dinner or to sit in your favorite chair. Even if it doesn't work
for you, the simple and well-organized training techniques will be
valuable. I really enjoyed this book.
Many dogs work for their living. Kathy Davis has written
a book about therapy dogs titled, Therapy Dogs: Training Your Dog to
Reach Others (636.7 DAV). This book provides a good overview of
training your dog to help others. She uses her own experiences as a
guide. It is not the definitive manual on training your dog, but it is a
good starting point. The author does advise those who are serious about
training therapy dogs to seek an experienced trainer.
Did you know that half of our dogs will develop cancer
in their lifetime? Laurie Kaplan's Help Your Dog Fight Cancer
(636.089 KAP) gives insight into what will help you when you receive the
diagnosis. She offers invaluable tips to help you and your dog fight the
disease. Ms. Kaplan offers diet information that will help your dog
regain strength to do battle. The book is optimistic and that is one of
the most important tips you will receive. You must keep a positive
attitude.
The DVD, Because of Winn-Dixie starring Sophia
Robb, Jeff Daniels, Cecily Tyson, and others is a good family movie.
Winn-Dixie is a big, ugly, happy dog. His best friend is ten-year-old
Opal. The dog helps her to understand and adjust being without her
mother. There are some great scenes in the movie. The librarian fights
off a bear with a copy of War and Peace. It is a fun movie for all to
enjoy.
I do hope you will enjoy these materials about dogs. A
dog can always brighten your day. They give unconditional love and will
be your best friend no matter what you may have done or didn't do. Also,
they always keep your secrets.
As always if you have questions or comments, please
either e-mail mfulmer@pennlib.org
or phone (724) 744-4414. We would like to take this opportunity to thank
our wonderful staff for another awesome Summer Reading Program and to
wish Mrs. Cindy Jones a very happy retirement.
Story times will resume in late September and there will
be various other programs this fall and winter. Please check our
announcements on the home page of the
website. See you in the library.
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