Pukka's Promise: The Quest for Longer-Lived Dogs Paperback - 2014

Summary

From the rear cover

Kerasote traveled the world in search of answers to these questions, and he truly offers the reader a range of expert guidance that will be beneficial for anyone who wants to ensure that their dogs will be healthy and well. "Seattle Post-Intelligencer"When Ted Kerasote got his new dog Pukka, he found that dog culture had been transformed: dizzying choices of grain-free and raw food, conflicting arguments for and against vaccinations, and battles between positive and dominance trainers. Giving "The Omnivore s Dilemma" a canine spin, Kerasote questions the common wisdom to show us how our dogs can have the best and healthiest lives today, no matter where we live. He weaves fascinating science and groundbreaking insight from breeders, vets, and animal advocates into the story of raising Pukka in the Wyoming wilderness. Fascinating and revelatory," Pukka s Promise" might be the most important book about dogs written in a decade (Patricia B. McConnell, author of "The Other End of the Leash"). Kerasote takes nothing as gospel and nothing for granted . . . By distilling years of in-depth research on a wide array of canine health topics into a provocative, thought-provoking book, Kerasote has done us all a huge favor. "The Bark" Every page bursts with an exceptional fusion of groundbreaking science, eye-opening facts and compassion for our canine companions. I keep going back to it as a trusted source of information and inspiration. This book is such a gift of life to all dogs. Judith Samson-French, DVM, founder of Dogs with No NamesTed Kerasote s books include the national bestseller "Merle s Door: Lessons from a Freethinking Dog" and "Out There," which won the National Outdoor Book Award. Kerasote lives in Jackson Hole, Wyoming."

Media reviews

"At once encyclopedic and intimate—a tour de force in canine appreciation." —Kirkus (starred review)

"A moving account of one man's journey to understand man's best friend inside and out... Kerasote's latest is heartbreaking, funny, and informative."—Publishers Weekly

"This might be the most important book about dogs written in a decade. Kerasote tells us early on that Pukka means ‘first class’ in Hindi, and first-class is a perfect description of Pukka's Promise. It’s a brilliant integration of speculation, cutting-edge science and story, and will keep you up at night wanting to read more. Every dog lover needs to read this book."—Patricia B. McConnell, author of The Other End of the Leash

"Here’s a dog lover who actually teaches his dog using modern training entirely: communication, observation, and now and then a clicker—not just to build a bond and a working relationship but also to create a running conversation between man and animal. This book also investigates kibble (Is it really good for dogs?) and vaccinations (Why so many? Why so often?) and other commercial pressures on our best friends’ wellbeing. What a good read."—Karen Pryor, author of Reaching the Animal Mind

"Pukka’s Promise is without question the most intelligent, most comprehensive book ever written about extending the lifetimes of dogs. Not only that, but it’s riveting. After years of flawless research plus a life of valuable experience, Kerasote has produced a masterpiece that everyone should read. From pet owners to professionals such as breeders, shelter-workers, and veterinarians, those who think they already know about dogs are in for a real surprise."—Elizabeth Marshall Thomas, author of The Hidden Lives of Dogs "Ted Kerasote gently and intelligently questions our fixed notions about living with dogs. Anyone who reads Pukka’s Promise can't help but become a better dog person. I'd like it to be compulsory reading for all practicing vets and veterinary students."—Bruce Fogle, DVM, author of The Dog’s Mind

"Ted Kerasote, a born storyteller, writes about dogs with singular brilliance. Pukka's Promise is great fun but is also packed with important, surprising information; with wisdom, compassion, and love."—Dean Koontz, author of A Big Little Life: A Memoir of a Joyful Dog

"Ted Kerasote mixes science with love to take on the question every dog lover asks: Can I keep my dog alive longer? Pukka's Promise stirs our hopes for the future and gives us hard information for now."—Jon Katz, author of A Good Dog