Review by Booklist Review
In No Shelter Here (2012), animal advocate Laidlaw highlighted the best practices for procuring and caring for dogs. This newer informational book can serve as a stand-alone or a companion guide. The opening chapter looks at the history of human and dog companionship, particularly how certain breeds have evolved over time. Accompanied by numerous photos on every page, the text continues with chapters on amazing dog biology (e.g., their heightened sense of smell), responsible places to find adoptable dogs, getting along with dogs (e.g., using rewards rather than punishments), and tending to a dog's needs at home (e.g., meaningful dog walking). Interspersed with these facts and tips are "Dog Patrol" profiles of young people around the world who are on a mission to protect our canine companions. For instance, Cameron Bitove has held "Break the Chains" rallies to end unsafe dogsledding practices in Canada, while Brooklyn Bockelmann has raised funds to purchase pet oxygen masks for rescue service dogs in Iowa. Additional checklists, sidebars, and visuals help make this a fetching book for dog lovers.
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by School Library Journal Review
Gr 4--7--An emphasis on advocacy characterizes this introduction to supporting man's best friend. Young people who seek to protect the well-being of dogs are profiled. These inspirational youths show that the potential to make a difference in the lives of neglected animals is boundless; they provide canine hospice and foster care, raise money and awareness to benefit shelters and animal welfare organizations, and even campaign for the humane treatment of sled dogs. First-time pet owners, as well as those looking to volunteer at shelters, will benefit from the information. A multitude of topics are explored: choosing the most appropriate dog breed for adoption, learning about the emotional and physical needs of canines, and what to do if a lost dog is found. Extra fun facts in the margins, a gatefold featuring a leaping Jack Russell terrier, and appealing photographs add interest. Even though the book does mention the sad reality of puppy mills and kill shelters, the tone is largely positive. The author's obvious love of dogs and the impressive feats of the Dog Patrol will inspire young readers to take an interest in animal welfare causes. VERDICT Dog lovers will relish the rich detail and extensive photography in this engaging guide to canine care and advocacy.--Alyssa Annico, Youngstown State University, OH
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by Kirkus Book Review
In the United States, 60.2 million households include a dog, resulting in an enormous number of children who'd benefit from learning about responsible dog ownership. This effort explores three closely related themes: a history of how dogs came to be human companions; an examination of what responsible dog ownership looks like; and profiles of a number of children who are actively crusading to improve the lives of dogs. Clear, accurate, engaging, and informative text combines with a substantial collection of high-interest color photographs, several per large page, to round out a thorough exploration of an important issue. Topics include nutrition, the problems of confining dogs to crates, and the greater effectiveness of positive reinforcement over punishment in training, providing valuable, manageable information for young dog owners. Suggestions abound for tasks readers could actually accomplish to improve dogs' lives. The profiles of young activists add a level of inspiration and ideas for those who want to take further steps and do more than just providing better care for their own dogs. Many of the children profiled have found small ways to raise money for big projects that have led to significant positive outcomes for dogs in need. A dog lover's pledge, a thorough glossary, a detailed index, and a long list of useful websites round out a fine presentation. Perfect for dog lovers and those contemplating that critical mission. (Nonfiction. 8-12) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
