Blog Archives
My Dream Dog
A Dog for the Red Gods provides readers with a glimpse into your life and the special bond you shared with your Labrador Retriever. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I wanted to provide a lasting tribute to the memory of this once-in-a-lifetime dog. He was so amazing and I loved him so much. I wanted to share the incredible journey he and I shared together.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I think the connection between hunter and dog is not often explored. I found it incredible when I realized he and I were thinking the same thoughts and I know others must have experienced this closeness but never put it into perspective. I wanted to tap into those bonds my readers maybe never considered.
What is one of your favorite memories of Breaker, and why do you think your bond was so strong with him?
The hunting adventures were a blast but I’d have to say my favorite times with Breaker were when it was just he and I doing the random things best friends do together-fishing, building a duck blind, sitting together on the steps while I read the newspaper. He was my dream dog. I always wanted a special Labrador and he was beyond what I ever imagined.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from your story?
That Breaker was the best dog there ever was!
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Ringo’s Rainbow Journey: A Memoir of Our Border Collie’s Return to His Soul Family
Ringo’s Rainbow Journey: A Memoir of Our Border Collie’s Return to His Soul Family, by Kathy Bolte, captures the precious bond between a pet and its family, a relationship often as deep as any other familial connection. Bolte’s narrative starts with the adoption of Ringo, tracing their shared experiences from joyous adventures to their eventual, inevitable parting. This book is more than a simple recounting of pet ownership; it’s an engaging, love-filled journey through life with Ringo, marked by vibrant anecdotes and moments of joy.
Bolte does not focus solely on Ringo; she paints a full picture of her life with multiple pets, both cats and dogs, detailing the family dynamics and the different personalities of each animal. Her writing brings us into the fold of her household, enriched with photographs that offer a glimpse into these cherished relationships. The inclusion of characters like Amanda, who possesses the ability to communicate with animals, adds a unique dimension to the narrative, deepening our understanding of the pets’ distinct traits. The prose is rich and evocative, effectively conveying the emotional landscape of living with and loving animals. It emphasizes themes of empathy and family unity. The story is beautifully told, with life lessons woven through the personal reflections and shared moments that will resonate with anyone who has ever loved a pet.
In Ringo’s Rainbow Journey, Kathy Bolte beautifully illustrates the multifaceted relationship between humans and their animal companions, capturing the essence of love, loss, and the indelible mark a pet leaves on a family. Her heartfelt storytelling invites readers into a world where pets are not just animals, but cherished family members with their own stories and personalities. This memoir not only shares the joy and challenges of pet ownership but also celebrates the unbreakable bonds that form along the way, leaving readers with a deeper appreciation for the creatures that enrich our lives.
Pages: 238 | ASIN : B0D3KB31WW
Raw Meaty Bones: Promote Health
Raw Meaty Bones: Promote Health, by Dr. Tom Lonsdale, is an eye-opening exploration into the world of pet nutrition. It challenges the norm with a bold proposition: the best diet for our carnivorous companions is one that mimics their natural eating habits, primarily consisting of raw meaty bones. Through an engaging narrative, Lonsdale critically examines the pet food industry and its impact on pet health, offering a fresh perspective on what truly constitutes a healthy diet for domesticated animals.
Dr. Lonsdale’s writing style is a blend of informative and persuasive, making complex veterinary concepts accessible to a broad audience. His arguments are well-structured, guiding the reader through a logical progression of ideas from the problems inherent in commercial pet foods to the benefits of a natural diet. The book provides a passionate and dedicated perspective on the pet food industry, offering insights that will be enlightening to many readers. While Lonsdale’s enthusiasm is clear throughout the text, it also opens up opportunities for readers to seek out additional, varied viewpoints to enrich their understanding. This approach highlights the importance of a multifaceted discussion in scientific matters and encourages readers to explore the topic further to form a well-rounded opinion.
The most compelling parts of the book are the case studies and personal anecdotes from Lonsdale’s veterinary practice. These real-life examples effectively illustrate the health transformations pets can undergo when switched to a diet of raw meaty bones. The book thoroughly examines the pet food industry, presenting its critique with a depth that emphasizes the author’s deep commitment to animal welfare. The book is very detailed. It serves to ensure the reader fully understands the complex issues at hand. This reflects the author’s passion for the topic and their desire to inform and educate readers about important aspects of animal care.
Raw Meaty Bones: Promote Health is an enlightening read that challenges conventional pet nutrition wisdom. It’s a valuable resource for pet owners seeking to improve their pets’ health through diet, as well as for those interested in a critical look at the pet food industry. This book is especially recommended for pet owners who are exploring natural diets for their pets and veterinary professionals interested in alternative perspectives on pet nutrition.
Pages: 500 | ASIN : B0C3WFSM3N
A Decades-Long Struggle
Multi-Billion-Dollar Pet Food Fraud: Hiding in Plain Sight provides pet owners with valuable information based on extensive research that could save the lives of their pets. Why was this an important book for you to write?
In the early 1990s, I drew attention to the environmental footprint of the pet food industry/vet alliance; blew the whistle on the alliance’s animal cruelty and consumer fraud, and, noting the importance of a raw meaty bones diet, suggested a new scientific hypothesis of health and disease. New concepts with greater explanatory and predictive powers merit debate and dissemination. However, the simple, self-evident truths with immense implications were not enough to ‘shift the dial.’
So began a decades-long struggle with the pet food industry, the veterinary profession, media, politicians, and regulatory bodies. Book writers, internet pundits, and opportunists created further layers of propaganda and misinformation. Rather than extol the essential benefits of a raw meaty bones diet and campaign against the industrial pet food makers, they created niche markets for their vegetable and minced meat concoctions. Contrasted with industrial junk, their pronouncements and products appeared deceptively superior. Unfortunately, pets and their owners were further hoodwinked and held to ransom.
Concerned at the cacophony of competing voices and the need for change, in 2001, I published Raw Meaty Bones: Promote Health. But it was not enough, and in 2005 I published Work Wonders: Feed Your Dog Raw Meaty Bones in the hope that good sense, at least in respect to feeding dogs, would prevail.
As one last effort, I felt compelled to write Multi-Billion-Dollar Pet Food Fraud and thereby complete the Raw Meaty Bones Trilogy with two interlocking objectives:
i.) Provide comprehensive educational resources for pet owners, vets, and the community.
ii.) Provide context and structure for the struggle against animal cruelty and consumer fraud.
STOP PRESS
The future arrived early. Lessons of the book are due to play out in a Kansas courtroom.
In February 2024, Keto Natural Pet Foods filed a $2.6 billion class action lawsuit against Hill’s Science Diet and their vet conspirators. In 124 pages the suit describes a ‘civil conspiracy’ that reflects overlapping themes in the book. Hill’s are depicted as villains who cherry-pick the evidence. However, Keto (un) Natural and small manufacturers make bogus claims too. Can the court decide whose lies are the more credible? Time will tell.
How much research did you undertake for this book, and how much time did it take to put it all together?
The book was written in 2021. It was edited, proofread, illustrated, designed, and typeset in 2022. The book launch, promotion, and marketing took place in 2023. The writing was the easy part. Having campaigned, lived, and breathed the wonders of feeding raw meaty bones for the previous 30 years, I did not need to do much more research. Here and there, I needed references which, in the current day, are easily obtained through internet searches.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
A wise medical educator told his students that 50% of what the medical profession believed was true, and the other 50% was untrue. But, he said, they did not know which 50% was which! That’s the style of healthy scepticism I hoped to engender with the series of parables in the book enabling the reader to develop a better understanding of pet care and veterinary services. I wanted the lessons of the book to be transported into other aspects of readers’ lives; to arm and protect them against propagandists everywhere.
I wanted to reveal the pet food industry business model that commenced in the 1860s. Dogs, modified wolves, are promoted as little more than furry toys with daily needs met by products conveniently arranged on the supermarket shelf. Unfortunately, both pets and their owners become habituated to products and practices with adverse health effects for the pets and financial burdens for their owners.
However, rather than rescue the pets and their owners from a cruel fate, the business model of the veterinary profession is to welcome a vast population of ‘fur babies’ suffering a range of diet-induced diseases. As a quid pro quo, vets extol the alleged benefits of industrial junk whilst simultaneously denigrating the nutritional and medicinal benefits of a natural diet. Assisted by the fake animal welfare groups, vets provide a protective cordon around the pet food industry. Besides the obvious revenue benefits for vets, the pet food industry buys allegiance with grants and sponsorships to vet schools, associations, and conferences. Welfare and rescue groups take hush money, and all is quiet on every front—just the way the industrial pet food makers like it.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Multi-Billion-Dollar Pet Food Fraud: Hiding in Plain Sight?
I hope readers will be glad that they read the book, return to it in their thoughts, and refer to it often.
Author Links: Goodreads | Linkedin | Amazon
From tartar-encrusted teeth and stinking breath to weakened immunity and a host of diseases, our pets are being harmed by the highly processed ‘junk pet food’ we place in their bowls.
Manufacturers and vets selectively disregard scientific facts, pushing money-making products and services that cost us billions and, ultimately, our pets their lives.
It’s a fraud of epic proportions.
Based on decades of rigorous research and astute observation, Multi-Billion-Dollar Pet Food Fraud by whistleblower vet and natural feeding advocate Dr Tom Lonsdale provides the tools and guidance to help you keep your pets healthy and happy.
It explains why raw meaty bones are both nutritious and nature’s medicine, supported by a wealth of case studies and testimonials from grateful pet owners.
And it exposes the shameful failings of pet food manufacturers, veterinary practices, and veterinary schools intent on keeping us in the dark.
It’s time to blow away the smokescreen for your pet’s and wallet’s sake. Are you ready?
You Can Find Humor Everywhere
In Queen Molly and the Summer Palace, a German Shepherd and her owner venture northward to enjoy the cooler temperatures and embark on new summer adventures. Where did the idea for this story come from?
I have lived part of the year in PA and part of the year in FL for several years; a reverse snowbird, I guess. Of course, that means two road trips a year with my various dogs. Two years ago, I made the trip with Molly for the first time, and her responses to all the new experiences fascinated me. I thought a book written from her perspective might be kind of fun to write and read.
Is there anything from your own life that you put into Molly’s adventures?
All of Molly’s adventures have a basis in reality. I guess I am more observant than I am creative.
I enjoyed the humor woven throughout your book. How important is it for you to create lighthearted moments in your children’s books?
I have come to the conclusion that my greatest contribution to this world, behind my wonderful daughters, is adding a little humor to it. So many people seem to be taking everything so, so seriously! I believe humor helps put everything in perspective. I have always been able to laugh at myself and, fortunately, have helped my kids adopt that attitude, and they’re happier for it. If I can let other kids know that the world can be a fun place and you can find humor everywhere if you look for it, that’s a good thing.
Can readers look forward to a third book in the Molly series? If so, when will it be available?
Yes, I will be writing one more book in this series. When Molly and I returned from the Winter Palace, Meghan was pregnant. Readers will be able to see that pregnancy through Molly’s eyes. As to timing, I hope for late Spring. I need to scrape up enough money to pay for my Illustrator! I am definitely not in this for the money.
Author Links: Amazon | Twitter
Queen Molly and the Summer Palace
Queen Molly and the Summer Palace, by Gary John, is a charming narrative told through the eyes of a spirited German Shepherd named Queen Molly. Residing in her beloved Winter Palace in Florida, she is doted upon by her human companions, Gary and Megan. The story paints a vivid picture of her daily escapades – from engaging in conversations with neighborhood pets to her enthusiastic squirrel chases, and even taking Gary on walks, which adds a humorous twist to the pet-owner relationship.
As the setting shifts with an unexpected change in weather, Queen Molly embarks on a journey of discovery in a new environment. The story adeptly captures her adventures and new friendships, highlighting her adaptability and zest for life. The inclusion of a special frozen treat adds a delightful touch to her summer escapades. Told predominantly from Molly’s perspective, the book employs a playful tone, especially in how Molly perceives Gary as “her human,” humorously reversing the typical pet-owner dynamic. This perspective is not only engaging but also sparks several laugh-out-loud moments, contributing to the book’s overall charm. Samantha Deir’s illustrations complement the narrative beautifully, adding vibrancy and a sense of warmth that resonates with the story’s joyful essence. The conclusion of the story is satisfying, neatly wrapping up the current adventure while also hinting at future escapades. This leaves readers anticipating more delightful stories about Queen Molly.
Appropriate for a wide range of readers, this book stands out for its storytelling and humor. It is an excellent choice for shared reading experiences, particularly during storytime. Queen Molly and the Summer Palace is a captivating and heartwarming story that promises to be a hit with families and readers who appreciate a light-hearted, animal-centric narrative.
Pages: 36 | ASIN : B0CPMTMHHX
Joy, Inspiration, and Connection
Poetry for Pups is a collection of poetry centered around the bond between humans and their loving canine companions. What inspired you to write this collection of poetry?
First of all, I adore my dog, Koa (and Mariah, my first pup whom I had the absolute joy of being her human for 14 years), and have always been charmed and fascinated by their antics, unique personalities, and expressions of love and loyalty. They bring me so much joy, just by being who are they in their own way. Koa, for example, is the boss of our household – she has me well-trained to her whims, and I fully admit that I am a sucker for all her demands when she looks at me with her big brown hound eyes that melt any resolve I may have to resist her demands. Mariah, on the other hand, was the sweetest dog I have ever met – she instinctively knew when I needed comfort and extra love, and she would always make sure I was okay, almost like she was mothering me. My dogs are certainly the inspiration for this collection of poetry.
I love the illustrations in your book; they capture the personality of dogs dramatically well. What was the collaborative process like with Morgan to put together the poetry and illustrations into this beautiful collection?
Morgan is my husband who shares the joys and experiences of being a dog parent to both Mariah and Koa, so he deeply appreciates and understands the poems I wrote about our two pups. He has always been so talented with the visual arts, and I knew he would be the one who could produce the most meaningful and charming illustrations for the book. We had a lot of laughs over this project – a truly fun endeavor as a family, with our pups as our muse.
What were some goals you set for yourself as a writer in this book?
In the reviews I’ve gotten so far on this book, the readers have mentioned that reading the poetry made them immediately hug their dogs and tell their dogs how much they love and appreciate them, or if their dogs weren’t around, made them long to be with their dogs. That is one of the major goals I had in writing this book. I wanted the readers to remember the joy of having their four-legged friends and to appreciate how lucky they are to have those pups in their lives. Another goal in writing this book is to provide a resource for people to build a deeper bond with their pups. We encourage people to read Poetry for Pups to their dogs, a shared activity that can enhance the emotional connection between people and their pups. Other benefits of reading to their dogs are giving a sense of comfort for the pups as part of their routine with their owners and even helping to calm anxious or stressed dogs by listening to a soothing voice, ultimately contributing to their pups’ overall well-being. Another goal is to entertain the readers with the funny and heartwarming stories conveyed through poetry, and to portray a sense of innocence, loyalty, and simplicity transporting readers to moments in their lives that are just shared between them and their canine companions.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Poetry for Pups?
The one thing I hope readers gain from reading Poetry for Pups is a deeper appreciation for the extraordinary and profound bond between humans and their beloved dogs. I hope my readers can find joy, inspiration, and connection in the shared emotions and experiences conveyed within the poetry.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
In one poem titled “35”, Susan grapples with the heartbreaking reality of the lifespan of dogs and shares her hope for her pup to live to a ripe old age of 35. In another poem titled “I Wish You Could Talk”, Susan depicts the longing many dog owners hold to build a deeper connection with their pups through playful conversations. At the heart of her poems lies the intertwining experiences, unbreakable bond, and the mutual love shared between people and their canine companions.
Poetry for Pups is a must-read for all dog lovers and certainly for all dogs with the help of their humans.
Words And Labels Can Destroy
“Eye to Eye, Heart to Heart” follows a misunderstood dog and an incarcerated man who cross paths and discover a chance at redemption and the transformative power of connection. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?”
The awareness of several circumstances caused the writing of this book. As I learned of our rescue dog’s history with “Pups on Parole,” it just so happened that one of my dearest friends had also been a doctor in the same prison system for 30 years. When asked what she believed was the percent of prisoners she worked with (thousands) that could not be “reached” or helped, she said 5%. It made me realize the immense number of prisoners who, like Gabbi, felt trapped in a label. At the same time, I became aware of stories of foster children, abused children, one of whom (9 years old) tried to hang herself with her jump rope…who also wondered…why am I back in this situation? Am I “bad?” The collective stories of how words and labels can destroy a life were the setup for the story.
The theme of looking beyond societal labels is strong in the book. Can you share a personal experience that influenced your perspective in this matter?
As a teenager I volunteered to work with Cuban refugee children coming into the United States without their parents. I heard their heartbreaking stories and felt their sadness. At my high school I overheard comments of several students calling them derogatory names. I felt that if people could only “know” an individual and the stories behind each person, they would not be so quick to ridicule, shame, or label them.
Joan Zander Millard’s illustrations are fantastic. How did the collaboration process work between the two of you?
Joan lives in Wisconsin and I in Nevada…but our collaboration was close and personal. From day one, we were a team. We discussed many times how her pictures told the story just as much if not more than my words.They were what the kids would look at and remember. She has an amazing way of feeling the words and creating the picture she felt while reading. We wanted to make sure the “eyes” sent an important message, …given the title of the book. Numerous times she would, on her own, redraw the picture as she felt adjustments would tell the story with more impact. She is an amazing, sensitive artist and I am eternally grateful to have worked with her and hope to continue doing so in the future.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
There are two ideas I am working on. One is a continuation of Gabbi’s story as she finds herself in a “forever” home… how we feel doesnt change overnight – it changes when we finally believe in ourselves. It takes continuous love and reinforcement. The second story is relevant to being in Nevada, where we have hundreds of wild mustangs not having a chance to live their full potential. Learning of the amazing healing power of horse therapy for adults and children alike, my intention is to write about the value of every living being…through the eyes of animals and nature with parallel themes as in Eye to Eye, Heart to Heart. I hope to have them ready by the end of 2024.
Author Links: Amazon | GoodReads
LITERARY TITAN 