Raise your hand if you’re spending a lot of time reading at home these days. Us too. Here are some books for dog lovers to read while self-isolating. We hope you enjoy.
Incredibull Stella
It was love at first sight when Marika Meeks met Stella, an adorable Pit Bull puppy who had been abandoned in a cold field in winter. But Marika wasn’t sure she was ready to adopt a dog. A busy entrepreneur, wife and mother of two daughters, Marika was recovering from Stage 3 breast cancer. But she couldn’t deny the way Stella made her feel. So, in a leap of faith, the family welcomed Stella into their home. Her energy, enthusiasm and endless cuddles transformed their lives. As Marika witnessed the impact Stella had, she decided to share her with the world, launching Stella’s Instagram page in 2017. Within nine months, Stella had more than 25,000 followers. Now cancer-free, Marika (along with Stella) dedicates herself to educating people on the powerful force pets can play in our lives, advocating for Pit Bull breed awareness and supporting rescue and adoption shelters that save animals’ lives. Written with co-author Elizabeth Ridley, this book reminds us that unconditional love can truly be life
saving. Published by Kensington Books.
A Dog’s Promise
Continuing the story of Bailey, whose journey started in A Dog’s Purpose and continued in A Dog’s Journey, this new book by W. Bruce Cameron introduces Lacey, another special dog who helps Bailey fulfill his promise throughout several lives. This time, there is one particular family that needs Bailey’s help — one that’s on the verge of breaking apart, and he brings his usual comfort, joy and laughter as he tries to unite them. The love and loyalty of these two dogs proves the incredible power of hope, truth and unending devotion. If you’re a fan of the first two books, you’ll love this third installment of Bailey’s heartwarming adventures and understand the belief that our beloved pets are sent to us for a reason. Published by Forge Books.
Rescue Dogs
Too many people think that rescue dogs have irredeemable problems, like anxiety, aggression and other behavior issues. But really, rescue dogs can — and do — become wonderful companions. Written by undercover animal investigator Pete Paxton with Gene Stone, this book helps readers understand these dogs’ uniqueness — how they think, learn and love, while offering tips for finding, caring for and adjusting to life with a rescue dog. Paxton also shares stories of eight individual dogs that have impacted and inspired his experience as a rescuer, including: Violet, who was once a medical school laboratory test subject and now has a loving, forever home; and Georgia, a three-legged dog who was rescued from a shelter and is now the most popular dog in her neighborhood. These stories will inspire readers to think more about the opportunity we all have to make a difference, whether we adopt, foster or simply give a second look to a special shelter dog. Published by TarcherPerigee, an imprint of Penguin Random House.
Doctor Dogs
Go behind the scenes of cutting-edge research at top research centers and into the lives of people who depend on their devoted and highly skilled personal MDs (medical dogs). Bestselling author Maria Goodavage takes readers on both a thrilling and delightful journey around the globe to discover the fascinating new world of doctor dogs. You’ll meet dogs who detect cancer and Parkinson’s disease; dogs who alert people to seizures and diabetic highs or lows; dogs who help those with autism, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia and post-traumatic stress disorder. You’ll also meet intrepid canines who protect us from antibiotic-resistant bugs and dogs who might one day help keep us safe from epidemics. The book packs both a scientific and emotional punch — you’ll immediately be inspired by what these dogs are doing and what we are learning from them. Published by Dutton, an imprint of Penguin Random House.
Top Photograph: Georgijevic/Getty Images
