Hospice Hounds (P)

The title is a little off-putting - I did not think I wanted to read about hospice patients' last days. A friend convinced me to look at it. It is fantastic. The author relates her experiences taking 2 dogs to a hospice. Each chapter is about her encounter with a different patient. Each story evolves into a parable about life, and death. You will cry. But you will also laugh and be uplifted. You will be amazed at what animals can do to lift the human spirit when it is down. I am not aware of the author writing any other books, but I would love to read more from her - she paints a picture that is so vivid, you feel like you are in the room with her and the dogs. I have given this book to many of my friends and they all are raving about it. You must read this book!

This book is wonderful! It describes the authors visits to a hospice facility with 2 dogs. She paints a vibrant picture of the visits. Each chapter discusses a different visit. Each chapter also describes a lesson in living - the author weaves a philosophical lesson in life into each visit. The books title may mislead. I was initially put off by the thought of reading about hospice, but it is not so much about death as it is about life. It is warm, funny, and, yes, sad too. You will cry (as my wife and I did) but you will also laugh and feel warm to read how these incredible pets did so much to smooth the hospice patients last weeks. I have lent this book to my friends and they all are raving about it.

This is a fantastic book. At first, I was reluctant. I thought that it would be very sad. It is heartwarming. Michele brings you into the story as though you were there. It is very well written. It demonstrates the true healing powers of our beloved companions. Don't miss reading this book!