Understanding Dogs: Living and Working With Canine Companions (Animals, Culture, and Society)

Rating:
Summary: Hey, now I can talk to fido!
Review: I used to not understand dogs. They always seems to say the same old things, like "woof-woof" or "bow-wow" or "arf." But now, after reading "Understanding Dogs" I have edifying conversations with Fido about Derrida, Foucault, Marx, and that particularly dense philosopher, Gritzerus. As Fido always says, "bark bark, woof woof, bow wow, arf, grrrrl." HAHAHAHAHAHA! What a sense of humor!

Rating:
Summary: a unique and valuable contribution to the field
Review: Understanding Dogs is an important and fascinating contribution towards the body of knowledge about human dog relationships, (also having implications for our relationships with other animals). This book is an essential fund of information and reference material for those researching human animal relationships. It is also a book for anyone who works with or appreciates the companionship of dogs.

Clinton Saunders introduces the unique combination of his meticulous sociological discipline, his familiarity with the published and ongoing relevant research, and his own personal, pragmatic and sensitive observations. He balances hard science with a respect for subjective experience. His work validates the importance of being open to the exploration of this exciting area with curiosity, scientific accuracy, respect and affection. His work speaks from his head and his heart. In his final sentence he warns, "Our relationship with animals can only speak to us if we are open to listening."

Dr Mary F Stewart DVM, MRCVS Senior Research Fellow University of Glasgow Veterinary School