The Well Dog Book
Terry McGinnis D.V.M.
Published by Random House

Buy this book for the plain common sense of it. From the crystal clear, no-frills illustrations to the excellent list of poisons and their antidotes, this book is chock full of truly, truly useful guidance. Aimed at streamlining vet/client communication, this second edition volume hits its mark.

California veterinarian and author, Terry McGinnis, ladles out the tricks of her trade with an approach that is down to earth and refreshing. "In the Middle Ages," she reminds us, "it was common for both humans and dogs to be infested with fleas...Flea infestation could be a thing of the past for pets if all dogs and cats had owners who gave them good care." Admonishing against premature neutering practices in pets because they retard muscular development, Dr. McGinnis draws again from history when she observes that eunuchs were "somewhat doughy adults."

The homemade dog food recipes in The Well Dog Book would be inviting to any dog and are comprised of things you have in your pantry already, not items you have to send to foreign lands for. The well organized sections of diagnostic pointers and courses of treatment are easy to understand and sprinkled with just enough Latin to make you feel you might well have managed veterinary school yourself.

Asked about her willingness to so thoroughly reveal professionally acquired information, Dr. McGinnis reflects, "I certainly haven't found that I'm at a disadvantage by sharing information. In fact the more you empower people the better it is for everyone. It is not as if by imparting information to clients they become an adversary to their veterinarian, but rather co-workers."

The philosophy behind this book is in keeping with Dr. McGinnis' view on informed and responsible pet ownership. Discussing pet overpopulation with UD, she says the solution is: "Taking a pro-active stance, talking about the issues ... about what being a responsible pet owner entails." With The Well Dog Book and a good veterinarian you can do just that.

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