The way I read this book was, as an example of what is necessary to have as close to a reciprocal relationship with a dog as is humanly possible. The author lives in a community where it is safe and possible for his dog to run freely with other dogs; where it is safe for his dog to be intact (un-neutered) without harming the population balance in the community; where he, as the dog's companion (not really his 'owner') has a flexible work schedule and an energetic outdoor life style; and where he has the resources to feed the dog raw and high-quality food and constantly research how best to treat the dog. The author didn't buy the dog, either, but found him, but had reams of knowledge about how to treat him. This was all very humbling for me, and it was a major realization that most of us would never be able to give a dog an experience like Pukka's. To me, this means that dog ownership should not be entered into lightly. Certainly the author does not take it lightly, and if people took it as seriously as the author, the world would be a much better place for dogs (and humans, for that matter). The book also has some very interesting notes about dog breeding, and the ill effects at the species level of breeding dogs for specific looks or tasks. "Pukka's Promise" is quite the thought provoking book by Ted Kerasote regarding health issues for dogs, specifically regarding what may be done to potentially lengthen the lifespan of dogs. It is certainly a more "scholastic" read than Kerasote's previous outstanding book "Merle's Door".I really enjoyed some of the idea's brought up in this book regarding dog health concerns. It truly was eye opening on many accounts. I must say, however, that Kerasote writes his conclusions based on opinions he already had & supports his research by people that agree with his conclusions. If there were opposing opinions, they were lightly brushed over, at best. But on most accounts, I agreed with him."Pukka's Promise" also lacked the engaging dog story of "Merle's Door". While Pukka certainly seems like a cool dog, he simply does not have the adventure's that were written about & that Merle had in "Merle's Door".
What do You think about Why Dogs Die Young (2013)?
Everyone that has a dog should read this book!!!
—ari
Such a great book. Full of good information.
—cneven
