If you're thinking of adding a dog to your family (even if it's not the first), you can't afford to be without this book.
Sue Sternberg has her finger on the pulse of shelters and breed rescue as they stand today, and minces no words in describing for adopters how to find the BEST DOG EVER.
With her trademark compassion, humor and wisdom, Sternberg instructs would-be dog adopters on how to successfully negotiate an adoption, from the moment you decide you want a dog (or even before you decide), to the first phone call to the shelter, to your first weeks at home with your new companion.
Most important, she includes information to help you determine, from an expert's point of view, whether the dog you are considering will be SAFE, or whether the dog is a ticking time bomb... BEFORE the dog is in your home.
She also writes chapters on training your dog (including a list of dog sports you can dabble in with your new companion) and what to do when a dog's problem behavior seems overwhelming. In a chapter on Internet adoptions, Sternberg provides a straightforward (and achingly insightful) dissection of ads describing dogs available for adoption.
Her recommeded adoption process may feel long to some readers, especially if you're eager to adopt or facing an uncooperative shelter staff or rescue group. But following Sternberg's advice -- however long it takes -- is time well spent, not only for the safety of your family, but for the added enjoyment you'll get from your new friend.
How valuable is this book? No dog professional, shelter worker or rescue volunteer should be without a copy, either.
