Kindred Spirits: How the Remarkable Bond Between Humans and Animals Can Change the Way We Live » (Reprint)

Allen M. Schoen, D.V.M., M.S., is a pioneer in natural veterinary medicine and the human-animal bond. One of the most sought-after doctors of veterinary medicine in the nation, he lectures at conferences and retreats worldwide, and is the author of three other books, including Love, Miracles, and Animal Healing. An adjunct professor at Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine and an affiliate faculty member at Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine, he lives in Sherman, Connecticut.

Treating animals just as any healer would treat human beings, Allen Schoen has become one of America’s most celebrated veterinarians. Kindred Spirits shares the transformative power of his remarkable methods, explores how alternative healing is revolutionizing his profession, and, in the tradition of James Herriot, shares heartwarming stories of animals and their caretakers who have deeply enriched each other’s lives. Through moving scenes–such as an ailing German shepherd who fights to stay alive so he can assist and comfort his ailing human companion–Schoen details the ways in which the human-animal bond can provide a wellspring of love and support, and outlines his own special prescription for improving the care we give our animals through adopting simple healing practices at home. A remarkable new synthesis of science and spirit, Kindred Spirits at last reveals the many ways our animal friends can help us lead happier, healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Publishers Weekly

Invoking the "mystical, magical, or metaphysical" aspects of our relationships with animals, veterinarian Schoen (Love, Miracles and Animal Healing) recounts his dawning awareness of amazing acts of courage and compassion by animals toward both their human companions and one another. Early in his career, his golden retriever, Megan, came to act as his "ecumenical guide" and veterinary assistant, responding to the distress of an injured lamb, kitten or cow--or panicked human onlookers--with loving licks. In an engaging work that is part memoir, part argument for a more holistic approach to veterinary medicine, this "left-brained" man of science tells how he gradually learned to observe and respond to an animal's emotional state, as well as to the physical needs he was trained to focus on. Since then, with Megan's help, he has learned to care for animals on both levels, and has incorporated alternative medicine into his practice. While a growing number of books espouse our interrelationship with animals and attempt to change our attitude of superiority, this account is distinguished by Schoen's fresh voice and seamless writing. "As we learn more about our connections to animals, we will consider them our heart," Schoen believes. "More than anything else on this earth, animals have the facility to make sure we remain connected to our deepest feelings.... Always remember: Do unto all animals as you would do unto yourself." Agent, Richard Pine. (Feb. 6) Forecast: Blurbs by Andrew Weil and Bernie Siegel make this book catnip for the legions of holistic healing enthusiasts. More potent still will be Schoen's appearances on pledge drives for PBS affiliates, as well as a 20-city radio satellite tour and eight-city author tour. Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.