The Wisdom of Old Dogs by Elli H. Radinger
Some of you may know that I have a seventeen-year-old chihuahua crossbreed dog called Holly. She came to me when she was just a few months old and had been hidden away in a flat without the landlord’s permission.
She has been a constant companion to me since 2002 and there have been so many changes in my life since then, but she has always stayed close to my side.
Although she is physically fit her eyesight and hearing are beginning to fail and she sleeps much more than she used to. She loves her food more than anything along with tummy tickles and a good back rub.
Every night I tuck her up in bed, knowing that she might not have much time left. She has given me so much love, comfort, and joy over the years, but I have to be realistic and I know that we have been so lucky to have had such a long time together.
So, it was with great interest that I read this book which shows how much we can all gain from the love of an older dog. I managed to keep my emotions in check enough to read this with Holly perched in her usual spot just behind my left shoulder.

Before I tell you my thoughts, here is a little more about The Wisdom of Old Dogs.
The Wisdom of Old Dogs
Elli H. Radinger
A dog is for life, but an old dog’s wisdom is for ever.
‘A truly heartwarming book – a perfect gift for any dog lover’ Trisha Ashley
‘The Wisdom of Old Dogs is an absolute must-have’ Countryside Magazine
‘A beautiful read that will leave dog owners and animal lovers brimming over with love and gratitude’ Woman’s Way Magazine
Full of practical advice, uplifting stories, and scientific expertise, this book reveals how dogs can be a constant source of wisdom, comfort and love in their old age.
The perfect gift for anyone who treasures these wonderful animals.
My Thoughts
I loved reading wolf expert, Elli H.Radinger’s thoughts about life with her thirteen-year-old white labrador called Shira. I found myself agreeing and relating to many of the points she makes, especially how old age suddenly creeps up on a senior dog.
She explains that after experiencing many things in her life, Shira is happy now just to snooze as close as possible to her owner. Elli shows how owning a dog makes you recognise what is really important in life and improves health and wellbeing.
The chapters are short with titles including Regret Nothing, Live in the Present and Every Day is a Gift ( great lessons we can all learn from our dogs). Each chapter is accompanied by a black and white photograph of a senior dog all portraying great contentment and wisdom.
There are sad and heartwarming stories about amazing dogs and their owners and many inspiring quotes and research studies which were really informative.
This is a book written about dogs from an author who knows them inside out and loves them unconditionally. I am sure that I will pick up my copy many times in years to come. It comes highly recommended for all dog owners, not just people who own elderly dogs. After reading this book, you will never look at your dog in the same way again.
Thank you to Mel Sambells at Mirror Books for a copy of this book which I have reviewed honestly.

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