Sparky Fights Back: A Little Dog's Big Battle Against Cancer »

You might expect a book about a dog who gets cancer to be a depressing experience. For "Sparky Fights Back," nothing could be further from the truth. Here is a true tale, well-told with great honesty and humor that readers have found "inspiring," triumphant," and "riveting." This story will reward all animal lovers, for it s about how a dog taught his owners courage and persistence in the face of a great challenge. Through Sparky, they found that hope can open doors - doors where miracles can pass through.

Along the way, the reader will pick up much practical knowledge about fighting cancer. Indeed, the authors "shock and awe" approach is a model for battling this disease in humans as well as animals.

After finishing the uplifting story, caretakers of cancer dogs will find direct advice in a special section, "If Your Dog Gets Cancer." And there is and appendix full of important information and resources. The book s foreword is by Samantha M. Schmidt, Director of the Animal Cancer Foundation.

American Kennel Club Gazette

All of us dread the day we discover a lump on our beloved pet. Our worst fear is to hear the diagnosis of cancer. Josée Clerens and John Clifton have published Sparky Fights Back, documenting the life of their Australian Terrier and his journey through treatment for non-Hodgkins lymphoma.

John and Josée had decided to get an Aussie - their first dog - after reading an illustrated dog book. After much searching, they found a puppy for sale - their Sparky. They had met the challenges of raising a puppy in a New York City apartment building and now, six years later, were faced with trying to save the life of their beloved dog. How unpredictable life is!

In addition to being a wonderful, heartwarming story, the book includes an expanded glossary of tools available to fight cancer, an appendix with the 10 warning signs of cancer, and listings (with addresses, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses) of resources such as radiology facilities by state, online resources, oncologist locators, sources for financial aid, and veterinary associations.