Book: Good Old Dog

The Human Girl has a book to recommend for everyone!


Good Old Dog: Expert Advice for Keeping Your Aging Dog Happy, Healthy, and Comfortable
Lawrence Lindner, et al
Amazon Product Link

Book Description

Our dogs are living longer than ever thanks to enormous advances in medical treatment and a highly evolved understanding of what they need to thrive. No one knows this better than the faculty of the Cummings Veterinary School at Tufts, who treat more than 8,000 older dogs annually. Their philosophy of caring for aging dogs combines empathy for each individual dog and owner, a comprehensive approach to patient care, cutting-edge science and technology, and a commitment to innovation. Good Old Dog brings their renowned clinic into your living room, arming you with essential advice to see your dog through his golden years.

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This took me some time to read as I was rather busy for a time... however, I have to admit this could get a little bit (a tiny little bit) dry.

I bought this book because of the dog topic, and also because I have 2 aging dogs: Bido at 13ish and Menina at 8ish. Both were taken in as strays so I don't really know if that is their age or not. Besides, I've had numerous other dogs before them, so in truth, I was already rather, I wouldn't say knowledgeable, but, perhaps sympathetic is the word.

In any case, this book is not an encyclopedia. Please do not think that you can use this book as a "Hey my dog is limping, what does it mean?" While this book does illustrates examples as to what could be a problem, this is by no means a "Check and diagnose yourself" book.

What this book really does, is show you through systematic scenarios of what may be and what could be done. The book reiterates many times that you should consult the vet for advice first. Any decision of any sort, is ultimately, yours to make. However, you should take the responsibility to find out, research, and learn of available options to make the best decision in your case, in your scenario, in your family.

A few key advises from the book I would like to add in here:
- Get insurance for the dog if it is available where you are.
- Make a budget of medical expenses for your dog.
- Set money aside early on so you have the funds when your dog gets old and needs "emergency money".