Kindred Spirit, Kindred Care: Making Health Decisions on Behalf of Our Animal Companions Book

Pets are now considered family members, and at the same time, profound changes are taking place in veterinary medicine. Procedures formerly available only for people are now also options for animals, giving rise to both tougher decisions and higher costs. To help the millions of pet lovers in the U.S. navigate this new landscape, Shannon Fujimoto Nakaya carefully lays out the issues people may face when confronted with a pet's health crisis and considering whether to pursue a particular treatment. She shows how each decision involves understanding the medical condition, treatment options, and potential outcomes - as well as one's own priorities and resources. The book explores the human-animal bond, healthy living and graceful aging, understanding diagnoses and options, managing needs and expectations, and more. Delivering much needed solace and guidance, it makes this uncharted territory more manageable for the many pet caretakers wanting to do the right thing for their loved ones.

Library Journal

Nakaya, a veterinarian with over 20 years of experience, guides readers in making healthcare decisions for their animals. She believes that the best decisions take into account other factors besides the animals' needs, i.e., financial commitments, diagnosis and treatment options, and the family's lifestyle. These factors are discussed thoroughly and thoughtfully in clear and concise-but still compassionate-prose. Nakaya also does a fine job of dealing with controversial topics like euthanasia, presenting her own viewpoint while acknowledging that some readers may disagree. Although her book does not pretend to give all the answers, it certainly provides the right questions to ask. The examples deal mostly with small animal companions, e.g., cats, dogs, and birds, but they could easily be applied to others. This thoughtful volume is recommended reading for people who love and cherish their pets and is a good choice for public libraries.-Deborah Emerson, Rochester Regional Lib. Council, Fairport, NY Copyright 2005 Reed Business Information.