Elizabeth R. (esjro) -
I am surprised that the reader reviews for this book are not better. Perhaps readers familiar with Horowitz's previous books came to this one with an expectation that it would be focused on her research as the others were. Our Dogs, Ourselves is a much more personal work. The chapters stand as indivdual essays about the history and current state of relationships between dogs and humans. The author's dogs are frequently referenced and written about fondly, making this book part memoir.
Our Dogs, Ourselves is not an easy read as some chapters focus on heart-wrenching subjects such as experimentation on dogs and genetic problems progogated by breeding for physical appearance. The chapter questioning the ethics of spaying and neutering is sure to spark controversy, but the discussion started is one worth having. Fortunately, not all the topics are heavy, and the book is loosely organized to alternate between light and serious topics. I particularly enjoyed the chapter about people talking to their dogs.
Readers looking for a more science based book should turn to the author's previous two works, but people interested in a more anthropological take on the bonds between dogs and humans should enjoy this.
Our Dogs, Ourselves is not an easy read as some chapters focus on heart-wrenching subjects such as experimentation on dogs and genetic problems progogated by breeding for physical appearance. The chapter questioning the ethics of spaying and neutering is sure to spark controversy, but the discussion started is one worth having. Fortunately, not all the topics are heavy, and the book is loosely organized to alternate between light and serious topics. I particularly enjoyed the chapter about people talking to their dogs.
Readers looking for a more science based book should turn to the author's previous two works, but people interested in a more anthropological take on the bonds between dogs and humans should enjoy this.
