The Wisdom of Old Dogs: Lessons in Life, Love and Friendship

Although Radinger is well known and respected in her native Germany and throughout Europe for her research on wolves and dogs, few of her books have been translated into English. Now readers can immerse themselves in her beautifully written examination of the lessons dog owners can learn from their canines’ attitudes toward aging. The hardest part of pet ownership is saying goodbye to them after a too-short lifetime. But do dogs really fight against aging, or do they have the wisdom to accept their natural life changes and unexpected illnesses? Using her elderly dog Shira as an example, Radinger writes with tenderness and compassion, asserting that owners can help their dogs navigate aging by taking more time, showing more patience, and providing extra medical care. She stresses that we can incorporate acceptance into our own lives as well. This book will complement other titles on the topic and offers a thoughtful and fear-reducing perspective, with helpful suggestions and examples.