The first week in November celebrates National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week, and I just want to send out six cheers for animal adoptions everywhere. Bark, bark, bark! Meow, meow, meow! I should probably throw in a “chirpity-chirp,” “bwok-bwok,” and “hiss-hiss” because animal adoptions involve many species. Bottom line, there are lots of animals who need love, compassion and good homes.
Welcoming a shelter pet, or any homeless animal, into one’s home is a big step, and it’s not possible for everyone. But everyone can read about happy rescues and feel warm and fuzzy inside. To help celebrate National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week, I am recommending a selection of titles for adults, kids, and animal lovers/readers of all ages. One of my favorite comic strips is “Mutts,” written and illustrated by Patrick McDonnell. The library has many of his heartwarming titles, and I encourage all animal lovers to give him a try. He is a strong voice for the humane treatment of animals, and often references quotes from well-known animal advocates. One of my favorite quotes is from Jane Goodall: “Only if we understand, can we care. Only if we care, we will help. Only if we help, we shall be saved.”
Adults
- “Funny Farm: My Unexpected Life with 600 Rescue Animals” by Laurie Zaleski.
- “Mutual Rescue: How Adopting a Homeless Animal Can Save You, Too” by Carol Novello.
- “Rescuing Penny Jane: One Shelter Volunteer, Countless Dogs, and the Quest to Find Them All Homes” by Amy Sutherland.
Children
- “How Tickles Saved Pickles: A True Story” by Maddie Johnson.
- “Madeline Finn and the Shelter Dog” written and illustrated by Lisa Papp.
- “Sweet Senior Pups” by Kama Einhorn.
