4 comments about The Story of the Plott Hound: Strike & Stay.

1. I've hunted with Plotts for a couple years in Illinois on raccoon. They are some of the most loyal, intelligent coon dogs a person could ever ask for.
   
   Bob's book is written by someone who not only spent years researching the subject, but he also loves these hounds very much and has Plotts of his own.
   
   If you hunt Plotts, you hunts game with hounds, or you have an interest in learning more in an interesting way, this is for you. One of the best reads I've had in a long, long time.



2. I purchased the book on a whim, just for the fact that I'm from North Carolina and had heard my parents and grandparents talk about the Plott hound throughout my childhood. I never knew the full story of the breed. Once I read the history of this fine animal, I became even more aware of the importance that it holds in not only North Carolina history but also why so many sportsmen and animal lovers covet the Plott hound. Reading this book also gave me a greater insight into my own ancestors love of this dog. In a unique way, this book brought back so many good memories of my relatives who are no longer here to share the stories themselves. I just want to commend Mr. Plott for producing such a fine telling of what truly is one of the world's underappreciated treasures, the Plott hound.



3. This was a gift for daughter who has adopted a Plott Hound, she loves the book about her baby!



4. Strike & Stay is without doubt the best history of the wonderful Plott hound that exists. As a North Carolina native, the Plott Hound's having been chosen as the "State Dog" piqued my interest years ago. Now, enlightened by picture-rich Strike & Stay, my interest has only increased. This excellent narrative traces the dog's history from the Black Forest of Germany in 1750 to modern-day recognition as one of the finest dog breeds in the U.S.A, and the world. It is a story engagingly told by the great, great, great grandson of Johannes Plott, whose family first developed the bear-hunting breed for German barons. Sixteen year-old Johannes Plott's 1750 migration to America, his devotion to breeding the finest, most loyal hunting dog in the world, and his descendents' unwavering continuation of that devotion, is a great story for dog lovers, history buffs, hunters and non-hunters. Bob Plott is to be commended for this outstanding work!

5 comments about The Veterinarians' Guide to Your Dog's Symptoms (Veterinarians Guide).

1. We have had 7 Danes, my son has two labs, my daughter one yorkie and we have one pit.. needless to say this is the most used book in my house.. if something happens before we can call a vet.. we all use this.. in fact I bought a copy for my daughter...



2. I had high hopes for this book, however, the flow charts often end in "call your veterinarian". Even in cases when home remedies are available, it often suggests you call your vet for a home remedy! Calling my vet is what I was trying to avoid (hmmm...I guess I should have expected this, since it is a "veterinarian's guide")! I would leave this one for beginner-level dog owners.



3. This book is a nice basic guide to figuring out symptoms with your dog. Easy to find symptoms & to understand. A good book to have in your addition along with other dog books one may have.



4. If you read all the reviews, you will see that one misguided person entered a low ranking 4 times to unfairly negatively impact the results. (It appears that that person may be a self-styled expert, but not a veterinarian.) Other reviews attest to how useful a book like this can be.



5. Other veterinary guides to canine health are more comprehensive, but this one is perfect for those times when you need to know something right away. The chapters are organized broadly by symptom; within each chapter, charts enable you to quickly determine 1) the possible cause(s) of your dog's problem and 2) if this is a condition that needs immediate or eventual vet care. The information is organized to help you narrow the field of possible conditions by evaluating associated symptoms. A previous reviewer has apparently tried to decrease the overall rating of this book by submitting their negative review repeatedly, an unfair practice in itself, but I think the reveiw itself is off base as well. Many conditions are described as non-urgent, and for those, useful home remedies are suggested. (The remedies I've tried work.) This book doesn't offer in-depth information on canine illnesses or disorders, but it is very helpful as a first-aid, first-place-to-look resource. It's possible that there are better guides out there--I haven't read them all. But this is the best one I've seen for quickly answering the questions, What do my dog's symptoms mean? and Do I need to see the vet?

5 comments about Choosing a Dog for Dummies.

1. I just finished reading this book and buying my first puppy. This was my bible. I even had folded down pages and brought the book with me when I went to pick up my puppy at the breeder. This book was great because if you go on the AKC web site, they describe dogs by the qualities I didn't care about. They talk about fur markings, tail length, and things about being show quality. This book told me what I wanted to know about each breed like if it's good with kids, how much it sheds, and typical behaviors you can expect. It does that for many breeds including those considered rare. All the info was here about how to find a puppy, questions to ask when interviewing breeders, what all the health certifications mean, etc. It's told from the perspective of a person on the inside who is clearly knowledgeable about the dog world. It would be nice if more of the pictures were in color, as opposed to just the top 20 breeds, but you can't have everything and it would cost a lot more if it did. But overall, it's a great book for someone interested in getting a dog and wanting to know about all the different breeds.



2. Like the easy to find requirements for each breed.



3. This book is a Godsend for folks trying to decide which is the right breed of dog for them. Concise yet complete, and very readable. You sit down intending to glance through your new book, and end up reading it cover-to-cover (often laughing out loud). You now have a short list of possible breeds, and you know just what to do next, to find your dog. Great book for dog-hunters!



4. This book is full of information on all kinds of different dog breeds. It tells you if the breed is good with kids, how much it sheds, what it is good at, and more.



5. As a cat-owner looking for a dog, I needed help. I've only lived with cats during my lifetime (except the dog my parents had until I was 5). This book gives information about the different breeds of dogs, about finding a breeder or rescuing an animal, plus much much more. If you are looking into finding the type of dog that will fit into your household, I highly recommend this book. My husband also found it to be full of information, and he's been a dog-owner all of his life!

5 comments about Pomeranians For Dummies (For Dummies (Pets)).

1. This is a great book for beginners. It covers all topics for the pom...i especially like the tips on the side. Its straight to the point and informative.



2. Pomeranians For Dummies (For Dummies (Pets))
   
   If you love your pom, you'll read this book and get to know your pet....that way, you can give it the care it needs and yearns for.
   
   This book tells you in layman terms everything you would want to know as a responsible and loving dog owner. Pomeranians are a special breed with unique physical characteristics and a personality of its own. This isn't just another dog book, it's written especially for pom lovers.



3. couldnt put it down. read it in two days. great book to own when you are thinkin about getting a pom or own a pom.



4. I'll be honest, by the time I bought this book I had already done a lot of research on the breed online. I knew I was planning on getting a Pom and wanted all the info I could get my hands on. This book didn't really tell me anything breed specific that I didn't already know. So, if you aren't a google sleuth... it's a fabulous intro to the breed and dog ownership in general. If you want to save your money though do a lot of reading online and join some forums... they will educate you just as much.



5. This book is fantastic. I got my first Pom earlier this year, and have been collecting a library of Pom books. This one is by far the best. It has pretty much everything you need to know about owning & caring for a Pom. Every once in a while I cross reference to another Pom book, but generally this one is right on with what is best & most up to date! Very informative without being too biased, too.

5 comments about The Ultimate Guide to Bird Dog Training: A Realistic Approach to Training Close-Working Gun Dogs for Tight Cover Conditions.

1. This book provides useful tools to work through some vexing problems when training your new bird dog. Easy to read and employ techniques in the field.



2. The basics of this book are exellent although sections of book such as callback pens are not applicable to new zealand



3. This book is good. It provides some basic technics on methods of training. I personally prefered "how to help gun dogs train themselves". But, this was a good book with good training ideas.



4. this book is a rehash of this guy's book titled "hunt close" that he wrote about 30 or 40 years ago. outdated.



5. This book is GREAT! My husband got me interested in training bird dogs after going on a quail hunt recently. I reviewed the books on Amazon that were available on the subject and chose this one to get an idea of what bird dog training would entail. I was skeptical that I could actually do this. I am hooked. This book made so much since to me! I am ready to get started with a puppy today. It is a lot of work I know but this book is an excellent way to get started. I know it will be an excellent resource after I get my pup. I have talked with a few folks that actually raise and train pointing dogs and they say I'm on the right track. I highly recommend this book.

5 comments about Work Wonders: Feed Your Dog Raw Meaty Bones.

1. I'll try to edit this when I'm feeling more eloquent, but basically: this book needed more meaty parts! I read it in one sitting, and found it about as solid as a pamphlet.
   
   I agree with the raw concept, but found Lonsdale's "Raw Meaty Bones" to be better for in depth discussion than "Work Wonders". Carina Beth McDonald's (name spelled right?) raw book is preferable for engaging the audience in a "diet" version of explaining the basics. Lonsdale's "Work Wonders" seemed a bit same old, same old.



2. Don't read this book and it's text-like companion,"RAW MEATY BONES", unless you are ready to copletely revamp your feeding philosophy with your dog or cat. The guilt feelings sure to be part of your psyche after learning the facts, will, however, be tempered by your new found knowledge. and will lead to the wisdom to help others. Oh, those years of doing it wrong at the expense of those four footed friends who were powerless to voice their discomfort. Thank you, Tom Lonsde. Your parents did not waste your tuition money. It was my parents whow wasted my tuition, having produced an idiot who went along believing thqt pet foodcompanies gave a damn about our little guys.



3. If you want to show your pets how much you love them,then buy this book and put it into practise,otherwise just open another can and ignore their health.



4. The loss of two of my 'shadows' - a fox terrier and a border collie - from suspected kibble issues prompted buying this book. Having lost four dogs in a month, with nothing in common but the food, I find it amazing that mine are the only ones with problems. My remaining dogs were immediately taken off kibble. They vary from a small BC cross to a German Shepherd. All have taken to real food well. With due respect to the ones rating it low after having had problems...I'd take a $2500 vet bill over the loss of a beloved show prospect and the loss of the last daughter of my old girl (lost to cancer in '06). They cannot be replaced - there is no future with them.
   
   This book is a good overview of the basics, the good things and the not good things (where it's pointed out DO NOT give wings to large breeds due to possible choking when they gulp without chewing). My sheltie shadow has had the biggest adjustment as it takes him a little bit to navigate the food.
   
   However there's benefits that go beyond health. Meals are a bit of a feeding frenzy with multiple dogs anyway (even when separated). However, when all have had a chicken quarter they lay down content, sleep far more soundly than when they'd get kibble. I don't envision feeding kangaroo tails as that's not a reliable source; and it's a little more difficult to find reasonable priced rabbit etc. But the immediate difference in the attitudes of the dogs after eating is marked. There's a contentment that is hard to describe but easy to see. They also no longer eat then look pregnant (but there's nothing wrong with the kibble?) and/or vomit or simply go to sleep and not wake up.
   
   Good reading, some good ideas. I *much* prefer feeding liver every couple of weeks as recommended here rather than daily...although I might go in between and do once per week with mine. The stressing of different kinds of meat was interesting as well. Am not quite done with it - have read quite a bit on the subject online as well.
   I wish I could go back and start this a month ago - Hatter and Fly would still be here. But for other dogs...highly recommend this method of feeding and this book as a primer.



5. This book should be essential reading to anyone buying a new pup or kitten. I think many vets should read it too...
   
   A simple and easy to read guide for feeding your pets based around sound scientific principles rather than faulty reasonings. Lonsdale clearly puts forward his case for feeding a raw diet. I found the observation charts from zoos especially interesting as they clearly prove the claims of 'stomach content' eating are false.
   
   No special supplements, no pushing commercial products just common sense backed by years of research and observations.

5 comments about The French Bulldog (Kennel Club Classic).

1. The French Bulldog by Muriel P. Lee is the definitive guide on this charming breed. The books' design, layout and lavish illustrations have as much personality as the breed itself. This text is an encyclopedic approach to the French bulldog and will appeal to both the dog fancier and the novice alike.
   The chapter "Pieces de Resistance" by Gary Bachman, who is a connoisseur of French Bulldog related ephemera, creates an extraordinary overview of objet dart ranging from a pair of Faberge smoky quartz Frenchies to unusual knickknacks, lamps, toys and tobacciana of the breed. Chapter by chapter The French Bulldog chronicles the history of the breed's popularity from the 1800's to the present with contributions of canine specialists worldwide. This book, a Kennel Club Classic, is an informative and entertaining guide that will introduce you to the Frenchie as an authoritative text and a superb introduction to unusual collectibles for every dog lover.



2. A tour de force. Muriel leaves no stone unturned. The only book about Frenchies that you'll ever need. Outstanding photos!



3. The French Bulldog by Muriel P. Lee is a must have book for any French Bulldog owner or fancier. This book comprehensively and deftly covers topics ranging from the history of the breed to the breed's portrayal in art and collectibles. The author's decades of experience with Frenchies shine through in this piece, as does the expertise of the other top notch contributors to this book. This book is one of depth, substance and beauty. The excellent text is accompanied by wonderful photos. This is a book that French Bulldog fans will enjoy reading and re-reading over the years.



4. Ms. Lee, a well-known and respected author in the industry, first made her name with the still popular "The Whelping and Rearing of Puppies: a complete and practical guide". This book follows her excellent reputation for books on specific breeds. A number of chapters are written by experts in their field such as Dr. Jan Grebe, current President of the French Bull Dog club of America, and Anne Hier, respected AKC and UKC judge. Despite the different viewpoints of the various contributors, the book is a cohesive whole and reads extremely smoothly. This must be considered one of the most complete and authoritative books on the subject for years to come, and is essential for all frenchie enthusiasts and fanciers.



5. The French Bulldog by Muriel P. Lee is not only the most complete book on the breed, but it includes a section written by Gary Bachman on Frenchie collectibles. Lee also engaged Dr. Janice Grebe to contribute a comprehensive section on health and care of this wonderful breed. French bulldogs doing utility, obedience and therapy work also are included. But for many readers, the icing on the biscuit will be the superb pictures of Frenchies being the adorable and adored family members they were born to be. Making people happy is what Frenchies do best of all!

5 comments about Race Across Alaska: First Woman to Win the Iditarod Tells Her Story.

1. i found this book an amazing story about a womens courage to do something not many women did. do the iditerod. i think that her courage shows through and shows men that girls are just as powerful as they are. even today the world see's women as delicte people who need to be taken care of. but no we are we are strong and powerful and when i read this book i read that message loud and clear.
   miss riddles stood out in my mind. i was truly sad to hear of her death. it would have been my dream to meet her and her dogs. when she realized she was going to win i felt excited for her victory and her strentgh. when she died the world lost one amazing women. may she rest in peace.



2. Libby Riddles brings you on the Iditarod trail with her. You will feel her cold, her fatigue and the fur of her dogs whom she loves above all. This is the ultimate armchair adventure. It's incredible top believe that people actually put themselves through this. A bonus feature of this book is the informaive sidebars. I recommend it with five stars.



3. I loved this book, from beginning to end. It was engaging, exciting, informative and just a great read. Adventure stories are my favorite and I love animals so it was a great combination. Hooray for Ms. Riddles for her victory and a well written book.



4. I had the distinct pleasure of meeting Libby Riddles personally on a cruise with Princess Cruise Line. Her talk was so enlightening that I bought the book. This is a must read for every Iditarod fan or interested person. The grueling schedule and trails will hold your interest until the end of the book. You'll find out what Libby cared on her sled, how she prepared for each checkpoint and what all the mushers have to endure to come out on top of the pack. You'll easily learn to respect the mushers and the love/dedication they have for the Iditarod.



5. Libby Riddles is the first woman to win the Iditarod, which is the Alaskan dog-sled race that covers over 1,000 miles.

   As I'm not very familiar with Alaska, I had never heard of Libby Riddles, or the Iditarod for that matter. However, my boss, who is from Alaska, brought me an autographed copy of the book as a souvenir from one of her trips home. I immediately started reading the book and was quickly engrossed in Libby's adventure.

   The book is written in journal style. I felt as if I were right there on the trail with Libby throughout her grueling race to the finish. Interspersed throughout the pages are interesting Iditarod facts that help the reader to better understand the life of a musher as well as the ins and outs of the race.

   Libby, as well as all the mushers, show an amazing amount of courage and strength. From start to finish, many mushers don't get to shower and exist on an hour or so of sleep every 15-24 hours! Imagine that kind of schedule, coupled with the intense physical endurance they're also experiencing. It was simply mind boggling, but very admirable.

   I found this a fascinating read; my only complaint is that I wish it were longer! I wanted the story to continue a little bit after Libby crossed the finish line in Nome!

5 comments about German Shepherds for Dummies.

1. I've had this book for two years now and agree with many other reviewers. While the information in the book is helpful in a general sense, the cover picture and title could be changed and it could apply to any dog breed. Really nothing specific about German Shepherds.



2. This is a very good book on the basics of owning a German Shepherd and has many helpful suggestions.



3. I'm new to dog ownership and I just adopted an 18-month old German Shepherd Dog from a local shelter. I wanted to learn as much as I could about dogs, specifically GSD's so I ordered this book. My observations are:
   
   1) The book is informative and covers I wide range of topics, i.e., training, feeding, housebreaking, etc.
   2) This book can be used as a reference guide so you don't need to read the entire book if you just need advice on specific issues.
   3) This book was easy to read and I read the entire book in a few days.
   4) Although I gained some knowledge from this book, many of the items covered I was able to find quite easily on the internet for free.
   5) This book was inexpensive and available through Amazon with free shipping, which is how I got it.
   
   Bottom line: If you don't mind spending a few dollars, this is a nice reference guide to have. Otherwise, you can find this information for free on the internet.



4. I liked this book because it gave me a lot of information on how to take care of a german shepherd and general techniques of what to do if they are sick, what to feed them, etc.



5. I was surprised by all the negative feedback on the book. I really liked it. I know it's not pure, pure, GSD, but dogs are dogs, you're going to run into some overlap.
   
   I wish I had bought the book, before I got my dog, but it was still helpful none the less. I got my GSD from German Shepherd Rescue. The book talks about like programs as well as breeders.
   
   If you're thinking about getting a GSD, I'd recommend the book.

5 comments about PugTherapy: Finding Happiness, One Pug at a Time.

1. This is one of my favorite books. I always joke that pugs are better therapy than I could ever provide!! My husband and I are profoundly pug people, and this book exemplifies the natural humor and grace of our curly tailed loved ones! An absolute must have if your favorite therapeutic tool snorts a lot and farts like crazy!!! (smile)



2. This is just an adorable gift book with equally adorable pictures of pugs in costume and in their natural condition. Little tidbits of advice are given, but mainly this is just a feel good book with some cute pictures of cute chubby curly tailed pugs.



3. This is the most adorable book with lovable pugs. The captions are so cute and fit the charm of the pug.



4. I went through a really dark period in my life. After trying everything, even electroshock therapy, I found this book and it changed my life. Thank you, pugs!



5. As a wanna-be pug owner, this book is the next best thing! This is the perfect gift for the pug-lovers in your life. The photographs are beautifully done with inspired captions. It's nothing less than page after page of cuteness. If you are a fan of pugs, this is the book for you.