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"More than anything else on this earth, animals have the facility to make sure we remain connected to our deepest feelings," writes good-hearted vet Allen Schoen. "Always remember: Do unto all animals as you would do unto yourself." Dr. Schoen's tribute to the strengthening bond between humans and animals will quicken the heart of any pet owner.
Publishers Weekly - Publisher's Weekly
Invoking the "mystical, magical, or metaphysical" aspects of our relationships with animals, veterinarian Schoen (Love, Miracles and Animal Healing) recounts his dawning awareness of amazing acts of courage and compassion by animals toward both their human companions and one another. Early in his career, his golden retriever, Megan, came to act as his "ecumenical guide" and veterinary assistant, responding to the distress of an injured lamb, kitten or cow--or panicked human onlookers--with loving licks. In an engaging work that is part memoir, part argument for a more holistic approach to veterinary medicine, this "left-brained" man of science tells how he gradually learned to observe and respond to an animal's emotional state, as well as to the physical needs he was trained to focus on. Since then, with Megan's help, he has learned to care for animals on both levels, and has incorporated alternative medicine into his practice. While a growing number of books espouse our interrelationship with animals and attempt to change our attitude of superiority, this account is distinguished by Schoen's fresh voice and seamless writing. "As we learn more about our connections to animals, we will consider them our heart," Schoen believes. "More than anything else on this earth, animals have the facility to make sure we remain connected to our deepest feelings.... Always remember: Do unto all animals as you would do unto yourself." Agent, Richard Pine. (Feb. 6) Forecast: Blurbs by Andrew Weil and Bernie Siegel make this book catnip for the legions of holistic healing enthusiasts. More potent still will be Schoen's appearances on pledge drives for PBS affiliates, as well as a 20-city radio satellite tour and eight-city author tour. Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.
Library Journal
Schoen, a pioneer in alternative therapies since 1981, is a founder and director of the Center for Integrative Animal Health. Here he follows Love, Miracles and Animal Healing, his first book for lay audiences, and expands readers' awareness of veterinary acupuncture, chiropractic, homeopathy, and other complementary approaches. Kindred Spirits covers the benefits of the human-animal bond; seven ways to foster a spiritual bond with your animal; wellness approaches, such as diet therapy and preventing and treating cancer the natural way; finding veterinary support; and how to let go when there is nothing further that can be done. An extensive appendix of resources is included. As with human medicine, alternative therapies are becoming more popular in the veterinary field. This readable, engaging book, filled with many anecdotal stories, should be enjoyed by anyone who is concerned about providing quality healthcare and creating a bond with their pets.--Edell M. Schaefer, Brookfield P.L., WI Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.
