Book Description
Why do dogs speak so profoundly to our inner lives? When Mark Doty decides to adopt a dog as a companion for his dying partner, he finds himself bringing home Beau, a large golden retriever, malnourished and in need of loving care. Beau joins Arden, the black retriever, to complete their family. As Beau bounds back into life, the two dogs become Mark Doty's intimate companions, his solace, and eventually the very life force that keeps him from abandoning all hope during the darkest days. Their tenacity, loyalty, and love inspire him when all else fails.
Dog Years is a remarkable work: a moving and intimate memoir interwoven with profound reflections on our feelings for animals and the lessons they teach us about life, love, and loss. Mark Doty writes about the heart-wrenching vulnerability of dogs, the positive energy and joy they bring, and the gift they bear us of unconditional love. A book unlike any other, Mark Doty's surprising meditation is radiantly unsentimental yet profoundly affecting. Beautifully written, Dog Years is a classic in the making.
Customer Reviews:
memoirs of a gay-sha.......2007-10-11
The poet shares the relationship he had between his dogs and himself in "Dog Years: A Memoir". Mark Doty (born 1953 in Maryville, Tennessee) is the only American poet to have received the T.S. Eliot Prize in the U.K. He received his Master of Fine Arts in creative writing from Goddard College in Vermont. Doty, who is gay, has written about his struggle with coming to terms with his sexual identity, and with the impact on AIDS on the gay community. In 1989, his partner Wally Roberts tested positive for HIV, which drastically changed his writing. Wally died in 1994. Doty is currently the John and Rebecca Moores Professor in the graduate program at the University of Houston.
Mark Doty relates his experiences of his time with his two dogs, Arden the black retriever, and Beau the gold one. Mark also shares the passing of his long time partner Wally who was diagnosed and died of AIDS. Arden kept Mark alive, uplifted his soul and gave him will to live by its comforting gestures and by giving joy in his little ways. Arden and Beau became his true friends, became part of the household, and played a big part in Mark Doty's life. The dogs were his companions during his lowest moments, shared his grievances, and happiness as well.
Mark starts a happy new life with his dogs and Paul, also a writer. But a time came when his dogs starts to decline because of illness. Beau developed a kidney disease, while Arden is having a high fever and showing unusual signs. Along with this is the devastating 9/11 where Mark continues to differentiate despair and depression. According to Mark: "Depression is always the consequence of despair, a despair one cannot feel one's way through in order to emerge from the other side, a despair will not be moved".
The dogs' everyday struggle reminds Mark of how hard Wally's gradual passing was. In Mark's recollection of the years he spent with the dogs, Arden and Beau gave him unconditional love and companionship throughout their lives.
Dog Years is one beautiful way of giving tribute to all dogs in the world, who are loyal and ready to accompany their masters until their dying day. The book depicts an unforgettable experience between a man and a pet. At first, I got confused between his dogs and his boyfriend, because he describes his dogs like human beings. I love the poems he puts after every chapter, it makes the book more interesting although I don't really understand some of them. I'll admit some of the chapters in the book were boring and depressing, but I was moved when his dogs became really ill and helpless. They really are like humans. I have a Shih-Tzu named Bruno, and I can't imagine losing him too when the time comes.
On a scale of 1-10, I would give it an eight. The book failed to get my attention in the first few chapters, but the book helped me a lot in understanding my dog's feelings, and the last chapter was very moving that I almost cry. I would definitely read another book by Mark Doty, I'm planning to get the Firebird when I'm not busy. I'm recommending this book not only to dog lovers or owners, but also to anyone who has experienced attachment and loss.
Truly beautiful book.......2007-10-02
This book moved me to write a review here, my first. I can hardly express how touching this book was for me. Sad in nature but told with such exquisite elegance it took me months to finish because though I enjoyed it throughly, reading it was an intense emotional experience, not unlike grieving. There are single lines and sections in this book that when thinking of them later, tears snap to my eyes. I am a true dog lover who can relate to the deep devotion and attachment to our dogs as expressed in this book. Mark has used language beautifully to tell his story.
To My Dog Loving Friends: .......2007-09-24
(I read this book and was touched by it enough to write an email to my Dog Loving Friends) Here is what I wrote:
Dear Dog Loving Friends,
Over the past few days I read a book that I checked out of the library called Dog Years written by Mark Doty.
The book moved me so much that I intend to buy a copy for me to keep as my own. (And I never ever buy books to own.)
I recommend it to you (if you will endure the more poetic parts of it and seemingly random diversionary discussions), and I recommend it to Connie's hairdresser given that he owns 14 dogs. Susanne, if you can pass this on to Connie or make mention, I would be grateful.
The book is told in the first person. It is a memoir of sorts - reminds me of a scrapbook in a way - with lots of "photos" (the photos being stories) of dogs, but other "momentoes" stuck in the book such as random musings on poetry and sidebar discussions on such non-dog related topics as Judy Garland, the difference between dispair and depression....and boy does he nail it when he decribes depression. I am not quoting directly but something like: "Depression moves in heavily and sits in the sink as the dirty dishes from yesterday" ....
As strange as all the pieces were, it comes together quite lovely. Like a meal or a recipe in which I would have NEVER thought to combine all those ingredients, but it worked beautifully.
This book all made sense to me (except for some of the poetry..ok, ok, so I admidt I am missing the Emily Dickenson gene along with the cooking gene, but I will go back and carefully re-read some of the poetry.) I especially liked the poem on the wind. See that is the great thing about this book. I just finished it and already I am eager to read it again.
The book starts slowly and gets much better after a few chapters. I was momentarily confused between a dog named Wally and a man named Wally, and I was mildly irritated that the author used the word "fierce" or a very similar word 3 times on the same page. jeeze, picky, picky.
But then on the other hand, I rather LIKED this "flaw" because I felt like he was not a honed pretentious writer following all those rules we learn in English and writing classes, but instead he was really writing from the heart. And I myself, of course, cannot even write one smidgen as well as Doty.
Doty, an artistic insightful angst ridden gay man, recollects his past and how important his dogs were to him. He brilliantly perceptively and precisely captures what I think we see and love in our dogs. I was constantly saying "YES, YES, YES!" outloud to myself while reading. I wept copiously at the end.
The manner in which he desribes his dogs "resonates" with me (I hate to use that overused word, but it really fits here).
Because Doty is a poet, he sees his dogs through poetic artistic eyes.
The book will make you laugh and cry. I hope you take time to read it. See the reader reviews in the link below. (and I copied in the link to Amazon for my friends to click to).
- later -
Absolutely wonderful.......2007-08-16
This book is eloquent, poetic, deep, funny and thoughtful. I have never felt so connected to other 'dog people'. So many things Mark describes about his wonderful friends I found myself saying 'yes, Pukka does that too!' 'I know exactly what he means!'. 'I know exactly how he feels!'
In addition to capturing the bond between human and pet dog, the book is also punctuated by real life events that have effected us all, like 9/11, and the death of a partner. Overall, the story is well written, (although it did go back and forth a bit in time), heart warming, heart wrenching, real, thought provoking and also explores issues of self worth, depression, relationships. And although the story revolves around a gay couple, it transends gender and sexual orientation as anyone can relate to their relationship with each other and with their dogs.
I cried too much at the end though! (Well done)
Unconditional non-judgemental love.......2007-07-07
A dog offers unconditional love and companionship throughout it's life. The unwavering devotion of the golden retriever and labrador is beautifully portrayed in this novel. These recollections are heartfelt and touching. I could not put this book down.
I am the author of-Dreams in August: Life, Love, and Cerebellar Ataxia
Product Description
256 pages. Lighthearted but not lightweight, Golden Retrievers for Dummies shows you how to prepare your home for a new puppy, socialize and train your pet, and much more. Down-to-earth style featuring cartoons, illustrations, reference lists, and more.
Customer Reviews:
It's good, and very informational..........2007-02-14
This reference book was really informational. It did however focus a lot of it on a golden retreiver puppy or how to take care of one. If you already have a grown golden retriever, I don't think this book is right for you, but it's still good at looking at health tips and information.
There are a lot of instances in the book where the author makes her own comments, as if she is talking. If that will bother you, then don't get this book.
It's a really good book if you are deciding to get a Golden Retriever puppy or new dog because it gives you fundamental things to know for taking care of a puppy or new dog coming home. I think a person should read this book before getting a dog or golden retriever because it does help educate you to learn more on the breed. However, this book is mostly generalized stuff that you can already search on the internet or online resources.
I think this book was very helpful, so I think you should get it if you have no idea on how to take care of a dog.
See ya!
Good Book.......2007-02-10
Alot of puppy info which I didn't need since my dog is now an adult. I think there is no doubt this book has something for all Retriever owners. A must have for your library.
Book for dummies........2006-08-10
This book is for dummies. That is true. The thing is that after reading this book you are still dummy. That what's the point in reading it?
A MUST HAVE!!.......2006-07-11
I had planned on using this book as a quick reference when I bought it a few days ago, but instead it was so well written that I read the entire book already. Very informative and really held my interest. I am re-reading certain parts again.
Useful Information!.......2005-09-01
This brook provided us with a great deal of useful information. We had an abundance of love for our new four legged friend; yet our family did not have a clue about raising her!! In my opinion, this book is more than beneficial in learning more about Golden Retrievers.
Customer Reviews:
Good Training Book on Goldens.......2000-05-01
Easy to read book with lots of color pictures of goldens in every day life. Well organized. Helpful hints in blue boxes that catch your attention. Goldens are smart dogs who can easily think of things to do when bored; book has helpful information on counteracting this problem. Would recommend this book as a good first book for anyone interested in goldens.
Book Description
What Ann Johnson brings to the discussion in this book are very personal ways of caring for Golden Retriever puppies based on her experience, knowledge, and background in Biology. Her natural ability to listen to all points of view and her extensive background in science as an educator and researcher have proven invaluable in helping to create the best and most harmonious life for each of her Golden puppies and for each puppy's family. Explaining the growth phases of a Golden puppy during his first year of life, Ann separates these periods into stages of development, describing the major changes that take place: Seven Weeks through Four Months Five Months through Eight Months Nine Months through Twelve Months In the comprehensive middle section of the book, she deals with health concerns: Vaccinations Feeding and Nutrition Common Health Problems Parasites Neutering and Spaying Finally, she addresses specific topics for new owners (and breeders) including a chapter about a puppy's first visit to the vet (written by Jean H. Cunningham-Smith, VMD). This book is basically a compilation of responses to questions owners of new puppies have asked her over the course of three decades working with owners and their families. In addition, she discusses matters she finds interesting or fascinating and does not avoid discussing areas controversial in the breed: "Not everything is known about so-called genetic defects," she says. "For breeders and owners to focus exclusively on the genetic component and not take into consideration environmental influences ignores a major component of what goes into producing a healthy Golden." Most amazing of all is Ann's devotion to her own canines and to the welfare of the breed. She is not only clearly fascinated with the lives of these wonderful creatures, but she is as closely connected to their world as she is to ours.
Customer Reviews:
Really knows her Goldens .......2007-04-12
As the proud mother of a perfect Gold-Rush Golden I can say that Ms. Johnson really knows what she is talking about. Do your homework first, know what you are getting into as far as time and cost goes. Don't buy any dog from a "puppy mill." Better yet adopt from a Golden Retriever Rescue Group.
great book.......2007-02-19
Gives good background into the breed and care of a puppy. Good information on feeding, training, health concerns (including hip dysplasia)
An in-depth, highly recommended pick........2007-01-07
Golden retriever puppies are special: any seeking to understand and raise a superior breed dog will appreciate THE GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUPPY HANDBOOK: THE CARE AND TRAINING OF A GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUPPY FROM SEVEN WEEKS THROUGH TWELVE MONTHS. From acquisition to the puppy's first vet visit and the basics of feeding, the handbook packs in everything needed to handle the special requirements of the breed. An in-depth, highly recommended pick.
Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch
Topscoach.......2006-08-22
Absolutely the most thorough and understandable book on the fabulous Golden Retriever pup. There are many excellent books, magazines, and other articles out there, but this one tops them all.
Ten years ago, when we purchased our first Golden, I did much in-depth research, deciding on which breed to buy. Now, after having purchased a new puppy, my "The Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook" arrived after-the-fact (I ordered it after I purchased the pup!).
I am astounded by the author's knowledge of the breed. It's as if she knows our pup, his personality, traits, instincts and his habits personally. I cannot tell you how very comfortable and confident it makes me feel to have this book. I would rate it ten-stars!
Just Okay!.......2006-07-21
I have read about 20 Golden Retriever books and the writing on this was "all over the place." Some of the information I did not find accurate as far as feeding Goldens 30% Protein b/c 1 vet she spoke to advised this. This book does not keep my interest as well as the other Golden books. I only recommend it b/c I believe Golden owners love to read every book out there regarding this wonderful breed.
Book Description
- Origins and History
- Puppy Care
- Training
- Feeding and Nutrition
- Breed Standards
- The Complete Gundog
- Breeding
- Showing
- The Golden Retriever Worldwide
- And much more
Customer Reviews:
The best book written about Golden Retrievers ever!!!.......2006-06-17
The best book ever written about Golden Retrievers!!!
This lady is a real professional. She employs world class specialists from both sides of Atlantic. It is the "must read" book especially for Americans. There are a lot of beautiful pictures and this is a great help for people to see how the Golden Retriever should look like. I just hope this book will get translated into other languages too. In the last 20 years this fabulous breed has spread incredibly in many countries even not covered in this book. In this case this book is a little behind but this cannot be hold against the book. This is a nature of all the books. Additionally one has to wait till changes will have more permanent character. I am sure that in the next edition of this book the author will try to update this. I just hope that all my clients will read this book prior to a puppy buying decision. This would save me a lot of time and it will set them on the right track. This would be better for the breed, for the dog owners and ultimately best for their dogs. What else can I say - I love Goldens and I love this book!
Great Book.......2005-07-30
This book is really great. It covered everything I wanted to know about my new golden puppy and the pictures are awesome. I recommend this to anyone.
Can't Get a Better Book About Goldens.......2003-11-21
This book is absolutely fabulous -- you can't get a better book about Goldens. For the beginner, it has all the information in there about how to housebreak him and when to take him to the vet, but it also has the Golden only type stuff, like how to teach puppies not to be afraid to swim. But it is really best for the expert, because there are so many photos of great Goldens and so many placed next to each other -- a British next to an American -- to show the differences in type. This is a really big book with tons of photos and easy to read and really tells you everytthing you need to know. It is interesting to see how the two coutnries diverged in their idea of what the structure should be. It was written by half British writers and half American and oh boy what that committee must have been like!
Content goes beyond basic "how to shampoo" and "how to feed".......1999-02-10
Excellent reference on correct structure of the Golden. Interesting documentation of similarities and differences of standards between the American Kennel Club and the Kennel Club of Britain. Great history about the successful kennels and which ones developed which lines and how the foundations of the breed developed in the UK, North America, Canada and the rest of the world.
Customer Reviews:
An informative book.......2007-02-22
This is a very good book--the pictures are great and worth the price of the book themselves. The "curious Golden Retriever behaviours" are basically curious behaviours of ANY breed of dog, with one or two exceptions, but still it was a very interesting book and it helps you to understand why your dog does some of the (somewhat disgusting ) things it does.
Them loveable Goldens..........2007-01-26
I gave this book 5 stars due to two things: excellent, delightful pictures of golden retrievers in all sorts of places and the text
which must be read out loud to be appreciated. You won't get a vet's answer to these such questions as Why are Goldens always Napping?
Davis gives an answer that napping helps them avoid some potential while-awake danger and hey, people who nap a lot are a friendly lot and so are napping Goldens. No technical best-in-show tips here. But a fun,fun read and very pleasing photographs of those dogs who never really act like real dogs. And we love them.
Great Book!.......2007-01-11
I gave this book as a Christmas present, and the family that I gave it to has read it multiple times! They love it! They go around the house saying "Oh, it is a Golden thing" about all that their beloved "Mollie" the Golden Retriever does!
Customer Reviews:
Book helpful for 1st time dog owner.......2000-03-09
We are about ready to get our first puppy in 10days. Friends of ours went out and bought us this book.They has also used it on their puppy but a different breed. i found it very useful and simple to understand. We will find out helpful it was in 10days. I would get it for a 1st time user.
Book Description
The golden retriever is one of the most popular dogs in the country. In fact, according the American Kennel Club, it ranks second only to the labrador retriever in popularity. Known for their easy temperament and boundless enthusiasm, golden retrievers have the ability to become wonderful family pets—with some socialization and training, of course.
The Everything® Golden Retriever Book is a must-have for new and potential golden owners everywhere. Written by Gerilyn and Paul Bielakiewicz, cofounders of Canine University®, The Everything® Golden Retriever Book is packed with professional, breed-specific advice that helps readers raise, care for, and train their golden retrievers safely and successfully.
The Everything® Golden Retriever Book shows dog owners how to:
·Choose the right golden for their family
·Socialize their new golden
·Instill good manners
·Find the proper diet and exercise regimen for their golden
·Deal with common health problems
Packed full of photos showing goldens in action, The Everything® Golden Retriever Book is perfect for new and seasoned dog owners!
Customer Reviews:
Good knowledge, poorly written.......2006-02-06
The author clearly has a great deal of knowledge and experience with golden's, but the book is extremely poorly written. The topics explored are very relevant and useful, but discussion was cosmetic at best. Nothing was ever described with enough detail to be useful. It felt like the author wrote the book over a weekend without putting any serious thought into what they wanted to discuss or convey.
better than Dummies.......2004-09-28
This book was much more thorough than the other books we looked at, especially the "Dummies" book. Maybe not as fun to read, but much more useful.
Book Description
Ranked 4th in 1994 AKC registrations. May "unofficially" be America's most popular breed.
Customer Reviews:
Above average material........2004-07-09
Manual offers consistant information, more consistent than other manuals published on this subject. Devoid of redundancy, unlike Mordecai Siegal's below par hardback, which was an unecessary sale and publish. The payment price for others are economical, but not in a specific way. Cairns may actually have purchased this pet in order to write, publish, and order this superior guide to sale. There are numbers of manuals released on this Retriever, which creates a serious dilemma. Purchase useless material, or the most useful and economical manual sold in modern day. Not recommended are shorter guides which are not seen abundantly in stores. 60 page or more manuals are likely to be helpful in domestic maintainence purposes. This manual is included on this list.
Wonderful handbook for the Golden owner.......2001-08-31
This book is well written with tons on helful information. I especially liked the section on first aid and health care. It's well edited and has lots of wonderful pictures of this magnificent breed.
Retriever.......2000-02-15
This book does work for all golden Retreivers.Check if your dog has a black mouth and black nose if he does. He is a very smart dog.Put an egg in his mouth. If he has a black mouth and nose he will carry around the egg without cracking it or breaking it.
Book Description
Not only are golden retrievers great to look at, they are ready, willing and able to perform myriad tasks for their owners. This full-color guide unlocks 101 of their heretofor hidden talents including backseat driving, home security alarm, foot warmer, taste tester, and many more. Captured by the vivid photography of Denver Bryan, this book brings to life all the heartwarming, endearing characteristics that make these dogs favorite companions.
Customer Reviews:
Cute Book!.......2006-02-02
This book is humorous and cute- if you're looking for a book that will teach you about Goldens this isn't useful- but it has nice pictures with little captions underneath that will make you laugh. I loved it!
Also, it is very small- only about 5 inches square and only about 60 pages- so don't expect a large book!
101 Uses for a Golden Retriever.......2005-09-06
Received the book in excellent condition and in a timely manner.
Service couldn't have been better.
A funny and cute book!!!.......2002-03-30
This is a funny book for any golden owner!! It tells jobs goldens can do around the house that they really can!! Like my favorite is the "minor garment alterations" as my two goldens eat socks, shoes, scrunchies, towels and anything they can find!!! A book to remember and keep!!!
Stirred up many fond memories........2001-05-19
I borrowed a copy of this book from our library system and found it to be touching and filled with humor. It brought back many fond memories of my old friend and our rich life together.
I plan to get a copy for my library and to give a couple to friends who also share a love for this breed.
GR8 Coffee Table book!.......2000-12-04
The pictures are wonderful! Both for kids & adults! Made me laugh, made me cry. Very enjoyable! Sent this one as a gift to a Golden owner & dear friend!
Books:
- Dr. Pitcairn's New Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats
- Dr. Pitcairn's New Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats
- Dr. Pitcairn's New Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats
- Encyclopedia of Aquarium Plants
- Everything Corgi: Wit and Wisdom for Lovers of Cardis and Pems
- Fancy Nancy and the Posh Puppy (Fancy Nancy)
- Fancy Nancy and the Posh Puppy (Fancy Nancy)
- Ferrets, Rabbits and Rodents: Clinical Medicine and Surgery (Ferrets, Rabbits & Rodents)
- Goodnight Moon
- Guide to Owning a Labrador Retriever: Puppy Care, Retrieving, Training, History, Health, Breed Standard (Re Dog Series)
Books Index
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Authors
| Arts & Literature
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| Books
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Merle's Door: Lessons from a Freethinking Dog
A Three Dog Life
Dog Days: Dispatches from Bedlam Farm
The Dogs Who Found Me: What I've Learned from Pets Who Were Left Behind
