The Monks of New Skete Reviews

Added November 23, 2007

Divine Canine

The Monks' Way to a Happy Obedient Dog

Author: The Monks of New Skete
Publisher: Hyperion Books
Available At: Bookstores everywhere
Publishing Date:
Genre: Nonfiction: Dog Training
Format: Trade Paper
Price: $16.95
ISBN-10: 1-4013-0925-9
ISBN-13: 9781401309251
Author Email/Website: http://www.newsketemonks.com/
Reviewer: Joyce Handzo
Rating: 9 Gargoyles

Divine Canine will make readers "sit" and "stay".

This extraordinary book goes a step beyond traditional dog obedience manuals, as it injects a satisfying spiritual aspect to the narrative. Written by the monks of New Skete, these pages chronicle several real-life case histories of dogs that were brought to the monastery for a period of intense training and behavior modification. The readers follow these dogs from their introductory lessons until they are reunited with their owners. Gorgeous, glossy photographs make the learning experience come alive, capturing the meaningful glances and gestures shared by the trainer and the dogs.

The canines selected for this book seem to have commonly recognizable behavioral problems. Each dog is evaluated based on conversations with their owners, and certain key areas are emphasized during their training period. Practical advice is described and the results are recorded in a conversational and enthusiastic manner. It was delightful to 'meet' the dogs and watch their transformations. Most especially touching is the story of Bonnie, a victim of neglect, who triumphs over her past with an innocent love and trust.

Interspersed throughout the book are answers to some fundamental questions most dog owners have, but these pages are not just a how-to manual of training methods. The monks of New Skete take their teaching beyond the physical world, as their spiritual intuitiveness cause them to view dogs through the eyes of their Creator. Developing a proper relationship with canine companions is at the heart of their instruction, and they never lose sight of the extraordinary wonder these furry friends bring to our lives.

Divine Canine will help readers master basic obedience commands, while recognizing the spark of the divine in these creatures. (And we all know what 'dog' spelled backwards is….)

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