by Steven D. Wolf with Lynette Padwa
Algonquin Books , 2012
257 pages
source: library
Comet's Tale is a truly heartwarming story of a man and his dog. As Steven Wolf's spinal health deteriorated and simple activities became insurmountable tasks, his rescued greyhound, Comet, was called to the life of a service dog.
The book begins as Comet 'chooses' Steve. It talks about Comet's adjustment to life as a pet, her eventual training (its highs and lows), and the compromises Steve makes due to disability. I loved reading about Comet's devotion to her master, and frequently found myself smiling and nodding my head in recognition of what I have come to recognize as nearly universal greyhound actions, habits, and mannerisms.
Comet's Tale prompted me to reflect on the many ways Zelda has enriched our lives, and it reaffirmed the decision we made two and a half years ago to rescue a retired greyhound. This is a book any dog lover will enjoy, but for greyhound owners like me (or anyone considering adopting a retired racer) it is a must read.
My rating:
This does indeed sound very heartwarming. I grew up with dogs so know first hand how loveable they can be, truly part of the family. But now I have a husband and sons who are allergic, so I have to enjoy my sister's dog instead. I've always admired greyhounds - they seem very sweet.
ReplyDeleteTrish - I've been a dog person my whole life and married into a family with allergies. Now my husband and one daughter have allergies, especially to cats. Thankfully, they are fine around dogs.
DeleteIf there is ever a day when our cat population is beginning to dwindle, I am getting a dog. The question is what kind? Once the kids leave for college, we will be moving somewhere smaller, and I worry what that would be like for a large dog. But greyhounds are so precious. I know this is a "mention" post but was as good as any full-length review!
ReplyDeleteSandy - It's hard to believe, but greyhounds are the couch potatoes of the dog world. They lounge around most of the day and do just fine with a couple of walks (or a run) each day. They can live very comfortably in a small space.
DeleteI think I got carried away with this "mention"post. The idea was to get me comfortable writing short reviews... that's going to figure prominently in my long term blog goals.
This is a wonderful book. The author understands how grim the life of a racing dog is. Greyhound racing is cruel and inhumane. Greyhounds endure lives of nearly constant confinement, kept in cages barely large enough for them to stand up or turn around. While racing, many dogs suffer and die from injuries including broken legs, paralysis, and cardiac arrest. And many greyhounds are euthanized every year, as the number retired from racing exceeds the number of adoptive homes.
ReplyDeleteAt racetracks across the country, greyhounds endure lives of confinement. According to industry statements, greyhounds are generally confined in their cages for approximately 20 hours per day. They live inside warehouse-style kennels in stacked cages that are barely large enough to stand up or turn around. Generally, shredded paper or carpet remnants are used as bedding.
An undercover video recently released by GREY2K USA shows the conditions in which these gentle dogs are forced to live: http://www.grey2kusa.org/azVideo.html
For more information on injuries these dogs suffer, please view:
http://www.grey2kusa.org/azInjuries.html
http://www.grey2kusa.org/eNEWS/G2K-022811Email.html
Dogs play an important role in our lives and deserve to be protected from industries and individuals that do them harm.
VWolf Board Member, GREY2K USA
Thanks, Val. As the owner of a retired greyhound, I applaud the efforts of GREY2K USA.
DeleteI'm so happy that you got a chance to read this one.
ReplyDeleteDiane - Your review convinced me that I needed to read this book - thank you!
DeleteI think this sounds worthy of reading. I often wonder how these dogs adjust to a loving home and slow-paced life after being used as racing dogs for so long. I will be looking for this one!
ReplyDeleteStaci - The transition to 'forever homes' is not always smooth. Many greyhounds are fostered before being adopted, and that really helps them adjust to the life of a pet. They are such sweet, gentle dogs.
DeleteI'm so glad you enjoyed this. I realize not all greyhounds are Comet.
ReplyDeleteBeth F - Greyhounds are truly a special breed of dogs. Comet, although extra special, is still greyhound through and through!
DeleteSo, so sweet. Dogs make me smile and break my heart (keep in mind Max is still a visitor in his own home when my parents bring him to vist :()
ReplyDeleteStacybuckeye - Dogs are such an important part of our lives. I'm sure Max is happy with your parents, but I can imagine how hard it is for you.
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