It's Okay to Miss the Bed on the First Jump: And Other Life Lessons I Learned from Dogs

John O'Hurley has done a masterful job in writing his first novel. This is a short beautifully written novel about the behavior patterns of dogs and how we humans can learn from our friends. Dogs appreciate the little things and O'Hurley conveys these thoughts in hopes that humans do the same. Whether its a friendly smile or taking a nap -- O'Hurley emphasizes the need to enjoy life and relax. It's Okay to Miss the Bed is great read for dog owners and would be a perfect holiday gift. His keen observations will have you laughing. Personally, I couldn't wait to get home and reunite with my two cocker spaniels (Lucky and Maggie). Warning: if you read this book on the train, be prepared for a little laugher because O'Hurleys sense of humor encourages such behavior. Great book and I certainly hope this isn't his last effort.

Having learned many life lessons from dogs myself, I naturally loved this book. Mr. O'Hurley's writing is a delight; full of fun and poignancy, as well. It's as open and honest as any dog you'll ever meet. Dogs have that effect on people. He writes, "On occasion, I have helped to heal them, and more often, they have helped to heal me." So do my dogs everyday. Being the sole caregiver for my elderly mother, my dogs keep me sane and focused. Without them, I could not do what I'm doing. Mr. O'Hurley is a true dog-person who writes from experience. This book makes my heart happy.

This is one book I think we all need to read: simple, humerous, and pretty much right on the mark with many views O'Hurley shares with his reader about some general, but important aspects of living. And O'Hurley is right when he points out that we can learn a great deal from dogs and their behaviour. Oh, I wish life was that simple, but nevertheless, he's right about: We should view time and moments as special: Dogs view life in 15 Minute periods, and so small moments in a day can be seen as New Day; 'Sleep is a weapon' - stated repeatedly by Robert Ludlum in many of his novels: acted upon by dogs, who never miss a nap; Life is filled with so much opportunity, and love, when openly willing to share it, is easier to obtain than you think. Dogs have it right: when a person stops petting you, it time to look for affection someplace else. I could go on about the many clever points John O'Hurley makes in 'It's Okay to Miss the Bed on the First Jump: And Other Life Lessons I Learned from Dogs', but I have a much better suggestion: go out in pick this one up. When life becomes a bit more complex or you seem to lose your bearings for a moment . . . do what a dog would do. Outstanding. Wooff!

Do not lend this book to anyone 'kuz you will not get it back!! It is an absolute treasure to be read over and over! And I defy anyone to keep a dry eye when reading pages 68 and 69!