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An Angel With Fur
An Angel With Fur is the heartwarming true story of Lobo the miracle dog. Rescued as a puppy from an animal shelter in Mexico, Lobo's saga is a life-affirming romp chronicling his growth, adventures and challenges. Featuring forty photos from throughout his life, An Angel With Fur is a must read for pet owners and animal lovers everywhere, and invites you to celebrate and share in the journey of a remarkable spirit who touched everyone he encountered. At times hilarious and heartbreaking, it is a unique biography of an incredible dog, unlike anything you've ever read.
161 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 3, 2011
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483 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
April 19, 2012
This book is more about a fifty-something man learning to truly love than it is about the dog Lobo. Russell is an expatriot American living in Mexico. In some ways, he appears to be a happy man but he has never made a strong emotional attachment to anyone with the possible exception of his mother. He is living with Kim, who appears to be a kind and caring woman, but their relationship isn't really going anywhere. Almost on a whim, Russell adopts Lobo and thus begins the first truly committed relationship of his life. The things that made Lobo endearing to Russell aren't exactly the things that would have that same effect on me, so the whole "angel with fur" concept seemed a lit disconnected with the story line until around the middle of the story. It's at that point when Lobo comes down with a relatively rare and very aggressive kind of cancer, one that usually strikes older dogs, but Lobo got this cancer at the age of one. Russell, with the aid of an intelligent and caring veterinarian, Dr. Tomas, practically moves heaven and earth to find an effective treatment for Lobo. Partially since I am now an 8-month post-treatment survivor of Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC), a rare, aggressive form of breast cancer with a relatively low 5 year survival rate, I could certainly relate to the story at that point. Lobo actually goes into remission for a few years but winds up dying young. Right up to the end, Russell remains determined to let Lobo know how much he is loved and to make the quality of his life as good as possible. For me, as an early term cancer survivor, that bit at the end about living the best you can THIS day and not worrying too very much about how many future days there might be rang very true. If you like stories about dogs, love, and commitment to something or someone you love, you will probably enjoy this short, easy to read memoir.
July 14, 2017
An Angel With Fur is no ordinary doggy tale, and it's star ’Lobo’, is no ordinary dog.
Russell Blake narrates the story of how he came to own Lobo and some of the adventures that they had together. Starting from when Russell went ’just to have a look around’ the animal shelter. This true story unfolds and shows the development of the relationship between Lobo and Russell and some of their other canine companions.
I'm sure that many dog owners will recognise aspects of their relationships with their own dogs in this story, and see how incredible the relationship between Russell and Lobo becomes.
This short book packs much within it's pages, and as the story unfolds and the chapters pass, the very engaging prose, bring smiles, tears and laugh-out loud moments by turn. The book is well illustrated with the authors own photographs, and there are links to the authors website where there is a dedicated “Lobo” page, with more photographs and video links.
As regular readers of my blog will know, I read many a ’dog’ book, and I rate this amongst the best of them. Russell Blake is a master storyteller, and Lobo the perfect dog tale to tell.
Russell Blake narrates the story of how he came to own Lobo and some of the adventures that they had together. Starting from when Russell went ’just to have a look around’ the animal shelter. This true story unfolds and shows the development of the relationship between Lobo and Russell and some of their other canine companions.
I'm sure that many dog owners will recognise aspects of their relationships with their own dogs in this story, and see how incredible the relationship between Russell and Lobo becomes.
This short book packs much within it's pages, and as the story unfolds and the chapters pass, the very engaging prose, bring smiles, tears and laugh-out loud moments by turn. The book is well illustrated with the authors own photographs, and there are links to the authors website where there is a dedicated “Lobo” page, with more photographs and video links.
As regular readers of my blog will know, I read many a ’dog’ book, and I rate this amongst the best of them. Russell Blake is a master storyteller, and Lobo the perfect dog tale to tell.
October 6, 2011
An Angel With Fur is the heartwarming true story of Lobo the miracle dog. Rescued as a puppy from an animal shelter in Mexico, Lobo's saga is a life-affirming romp chronicling his growth, adventures and challenges. Featuring forty photos from throughout his life, An Angel With Fur is a must read for pet owners and animal lovers everywhere, and invites you to celebrate and share in the journey of a remarkable spirit who touched everyone he encountered. At times hilarious and heartbreaking, it is a unique biography of an incredible dog, unlike anything you've ever read.
October 17, 2011
Everyone who has had a special bond with their dog will love this book! I laughed out loud during many parts about Lobo's puppyhood, and the way his mind worked. It really illustrated how certain dogs can exhibit very human-like traits, making it hard to remember that they are animals. After the laughter, I cried a lot, as Lobo's struggles with his health were explored. Yet, he had such a strength of spirit that I came away feeling inspired. It made me hug my dog a little tighter afterwards. Written with a raw honesty, this book was such an emotional ride that I literally could not put it down and read it all in one sitting. The accompaning pictures throughout, made me feel like I knew Lobo personally, and I wwas quite taken with him, as was everyone whose lives he touched. Read this book - you'll be glad you did!
June 13, 2017
$0.0
This is the story of Lobo, a dog that changed the author's life. As I started reading it, he reminded me of my Lucky. However as I continued, he was totally opposite. They are all so special, but like Lobo, Lucky did have something special that most everyone reacted to. So I won't go on about my Lucky since he already has his story...
I really wanted to check this book out because not only was it free, but this author has written other books I have picked up but haven't read yet. I am a pushover for animals, especially for kittens and puppies, but this was the author's first time being bitten by that cuteness, in more ways than one.
This is an amazing story and one that must be read by everyone who has known and loved An Angel with Fur.
For photos & videos of Lobo, check out the author's website below:
http://russellblake.com/lobo-the-mira...
This is the story of Lobo, a dog that changed the author's life. As I started reading it, he reminded me of my Lucky. However as I continued, he was totally opposite. They are all so special, but like Lobo, Lucky did have something special that most everyone reacted to. So I won't go on about my Lucky since he already has his story...
I really wanted to check this book out because not only was it free, but this author has written other books I have picked up but haven't read yet. I am a pushover for animals, especially for kittens and puppies, but this was the author's first time being bitten by that cuteness, in more ways than one.
This is an amazing story and one that must be read by everyone who has known and loved An Angel with Fur.
For photos & videos of Lobo, check out the author's website below:
http://russellblake.com/lobo-the-mira...
October 18, 2011
Recall the first time you held a pet with their wet nose buried in your armpit for safety. Lobo’s story will grab that soft spot in your throat and nuzzle your neck. Animals come into our lives briefly in the time we walk this earth but they remind us to become more human.
I highly recommend this story for adults and teens.
The writing is not sentimental it is clean and poetic. Russell Blake demonstrates writing skills across genres that dazzle Bravo! We look forward not just to his next thriller, but new projects where Russell Blake dances with words just for the pleasure of writing. Bring us across that meadow Russell and show us what it means to be in Lobo’s light today.
Thank you for sharing Lobo's tale. (tail)
Caroline Gerardo
I highly recommend this story for adults and teens.
The writing is not sentimental it is clean and poetic. Russell Blake demonstrates writing skills across genres that dazzle Bravo! We look forward not just to his next thriller, but new projects where Russell Blake dances with words just for the pleasure of writing. Bring us across that meadow Russell and show us what it means to be in Lobo’s light today.
Thank you for sharing Lobo's tale. (tail)
Caroline Gerardo
October 9, 2011
This story touched me so deeply you wouldn't believe possible. I laughed so hard and cried so much, it was as if Lobo was my very own dog. It oozes with unconditional love, any animal lover will thoroughly enjoy this story. Even those that don't consider themselves as animal people, I find it hard to believed that they wouldn't be touched by this. Whilst reading it I related to a similar experience I once had with one of my own pets, all of the same emotions shining beneath the writing so brightly. The writer has told this story in what I'd consider a very moving and powerful way, and I will be suggesting to every reader I know to give this a go. Sure to not disappoint.
March 9, 2013
Wow. This is one of the most captivating true dog stories I've ever read and trust me, I've read a lot of dog stories. It made me smile; it made me laugh; and it moved me to tears. The love of Russell Blake for his dog Lobo goes so far beyond, I am in awe of this man's devotion. Wow.
An Angel With Fur is captivating from the very first page, and it doesn't let go of you. This is a 5 star book from every single possible angle, from Russell's amazing talent as a storyteller to his love story with this dog.
If you love dogs, you absolutely MUST read this book.
— Sharon Delarose
An Angel With Fur is captivating from the very first page, and it doesn't let go of you. This is a 5 star book from every single possible angle, from Russell's amazing talent as a storyteller to his love story with this dog.
If you love dogs, you absolutely MUST read this book.
— Sharon Delarose
October 7, 2011
All books about animals tend to be nostalgic, funny, and sad. This one more than most. This is a factual book about the see-saw ride of dog ownership, especially these dogs. It says as much about the owner/writer as about the dogs. For those who have read and enjoyed Russell Blake's fiction, be prepared to be surprised.
This is a must read.
This is a must read.
June 24, 2012
This book is well written. But, having had dogs for 33 years, I was heartbroken to read what this poor dog went through. Inhumane........the owner was selfish to keep make him go through so much.
January 8, 2014
This was one of the most heart warming stories I've read. A must-read for all dog lovers!
January 25, 2012
After reading the summary, I had no doubt it is going to be a major weepie, so I must be a sadist to dare read this book. Still I did embark on the task and now I resemble a total wreck... it would take days and ice packs to recover from red, swollen eyes.
First, this book is a true story of a dog named Lobo, very well written by its owner/author Russell Blake. The book was written to immortalize the memory of a dearly loved pet. The relationship of the owner and the dog is one I can truly relate with because I am a dog lover myself- hey, check out my profile photo!
Next, Blake's ordeal in getting Lobo through his cancer is laudable, but more deserving was his COURAGE & LOYALTY to stay by Lobo's side in his final moments. Maybe you can call that LOVE. I still am fighting back tears at this very moment. The scene he described is a heart wrenching one, a very painful parting between a man and his best friend. It is very traumatic to watch someone suffer... and then to let go, especially when you know that you'll never see that person again. I should know. I have been in nightmarish situations where I witnessed a beloved's final breath, human and canine alike. In Blake's case thankfully, it is not a person. Nonetheless the pain is not diminished just because Lobo is an animal. Love, after all, is love. And pain & grief is just the same. Again, Blake is really brave to face it all, in spite of being offered an option out. Most people would rather skip that very difficult part. But he stayed. He stayed and suffered. And there were no regrets. 5 stars for you, Mr. Blake. Lobo is one lucky dog to have owned you!
First, this book is a true story of a dog named Lobo, very well written by its owner/author Russell Blake. The book was written to immortalize the memory of a dearly loved pet. The relationship of the owner and the dog is one I can truly relate with because I am a dog lover myself- hey, check out my profile photo!
Next, Blake's ordeal in getting Lobo through his cancer is laudable, but more deserving was his COURAGE & LOYALTY to stay by Lobo's side in his final moments. Maybe you can call that LOVE. I still am fighting back tears at this very moment. The scene he described is a heart wrenching one, a very painful parting between a man and his best friend. It is very traumatic to watch someone suffer... and then to let go, especially when you know that you'll never see that person again. I should know. I have been in nightmarish situations where I witnessed a beloved's final breath, human and canine alike. In Blake's case thankfully, it is not a person. Nonetheless the pain is not diminished just because Lobo is an animal. Love, after all, is love. And pain & grief is just the same. Again, Blake is really brave to face it all, in spite of being offered an option out. Most people would rather skip that very difficult part. But he stayed. He stayed and suffered. And there were no regrets. 5 stars for you, Mr. Blake. Lobo is one lucky dog to have owned you!
January 9, 2012
This book was given to me for free by the author in exchange for a review.
It's always difficult to write a quality review, but never more so than when a book hits you on a personal level. How do you write an objective review when all your personal feelings are involved? Is it even possible?
An Angel With Fur is a heart-warming story that will resonate with dog lovers everywhere. Russell Blake recently undertook the ardent task of chronicling the life and death of his dog, Lobo. Though a warning should be attached at the front of the book. Be prepared to laugh out loud as you watch Lobo grow from a formidable puppy into a troublesome teen, and have a box of tissues handy as you watch Lobo go through his adulthood years against all odds that he'd ever make it so far.
From the very beginning it's made apparent that AAWF is a tribute to Lobo, so the death part isn't a spoiler for the plot. Lobo's antics, Blake's subsequent efforts to cope with Lobo, and their journey together is the true story. Blake is forthright, honest and sincere in all of his tale-telling resulting in a touching, laughter-filled, heart-wrenching story that will stay with you long after you've put the book down.
It's always difficult to write a quality review, but never more so than when a book hits you on a personal level. How do you write an objective review when all your personal feelings are involved? Is it even possible?
An Angel With Fur is a heart-warming story that will resonate with dog lovers everywhere. Russell Blake recently undertook the ardent task of chronicling the life and death of his dog, Lobo. Though a warning should be attached at the front of the book. Be prepared to laugh out loud as you watch Lobo grow from a formidable puppy into a troublesome teen, and have a box of tissues handy as you watch Lobo go through his adulthood years against all odds that he'd ever make it so far.
From the very beginning it's made apparent that AAWF is a tribute to Lobo, so the death part isn't a spoiler for the plot. Lobo's antics, Blake's subsequent efforts to cope with Lobo, and their journey together is the true story. Blake is forthright, honest and sincere in all of his tale-telling resulting in a touching, laughter-filled, heart-wrenching story that will stay with you long after you've put the book down.
February 13, 2012
The story of a dog, from puppy to grave, hides inside it the story of a man growing into his years, leaving childhood and teenage rebellion behind as his “angel with fur” demands an adult’s care and love.
The Angel with Fur in Russell Blake’s book is a dog called Lobo, of unknown parentage and endless intelligence. Love at first sight has Russell Blake visiting lost dogs and finding one to keep, with zero preparation and hilarious consequences, many of them involving items chewed that should not be chewed. Life with Lobo is filled with joy and disaster till the author finds himself having to play the adult when his dog becomes ill. Hard to read without a tear in the eye, this memoir tells how Lobo weathered the storm of sickness, keeping on keeping on, and gently guarding his guardian till the guardian was ready to guard.
By the end of the story, Russell has more dogs and Lobo has a legacy of love. A beautiful tale of a beautiful relationship, this book is almost guaranteed to make you laugh and cry. If you’ve ever had a dog it will make you smile in sympathy too. Read it. Enjoy.
Disclosure: I was lucky enough to find a free ecopy of this and I love it—just wish I had a real copy too!
The Angel with Fur in Russell Blake’s book is a dog called Lobo, of unknown parentage and endless intelligence. Love at first sight has Russell Blake visiting lost dogs and finding one to keep, with zero preparation and hilarious consequences, many of them involving items chewed that should not be chewed. Life with Lobo is filled with joy and disaster till the author finds himself having to play the adult when his dog becomes ill. Hard to read without a tear in the eye, this memoir tells how Lobo weathered the storm of sickness, keeping on keeping on, and gently guarding his guardian till the guardian was ready to guard.
By the end of the story, Russell has more dogs and Lobo has a legacy of love. A beautiful tale of a beautiful relationship, this book is almost guaranteed to make you laugh and cry. If you’ve ever had a dog it will make you smile in sympathy too. Read it. Enjoy.
Disclosure: I was lucky enough to find a free ecopy of this and I love it—just wish I had a real copy too!
November 7, 2011
I've read two thrillers and part of a parody by Russell Blake - loved them all. Here, however, he reveals a lovely new side that warms your heart one minute and tears at it the next. Lobo, Blake's first dog, stole his heart and never gave it back. They were together much longed than expected at a terrible cost, but apparently worth it to both man and his dog.
When I say the love of his life, I'm only repeating a phrase Blake himself uses to describe Lobo, a particularly charismatic pooch, who was loved by many, but none as well as his master (which is really a misnomer - Lobo was certainly an equal in Blake's mind, and laughingly through the book, in Lobo's as well.)
You might expect the story of a dog and his man to get a little sleepy somewhere along the way, but Blake writes lean and the tale is never lagging.
You will love Lobo, for his stubborn courage and distinct persona. I can see why Lobo was and still is the love of Blake's life. Read the book, you'll see.
When I say the love of his life, I'm only repeating a phrase Blake himself uses to describe Lobo, a particularly charismatic pooch, who was loved by many, but none as well as his master (which is really a misnomer - Lobo was certainly an equal in Blake's mind, and laughingly through the book, in Lobo's as well.)
You might expect the story of a dog and his man to get a little sleepy somewhere along the way, but Blake writes lean and the tale is never lagging.
You will love Lobo, for his stubborn courage and distinct persona. I can see why Lobo was and still is the love of Blake's life. Read the book, you'll see.
April 3, 2012
I have read books on pets before, and whilst I enjoyed them, this one was different. It was not all sentimental, it really gripped me and moved me at the same time.
Lobo is a beautiful dog, and having a six year old rescue dog from a pup myself, Blake's recollections of the early days had me laughing hysterically. The part about Lobo hiding under the bed and being lured out by chicken happened with my pup, and Russell tells the tale really well.
He obviously adores Lobo, this is apparent throughout, and the struggles man and dog face are amazing and endearing. I cried at the end and I would say, if you enjoyed Marley and Me, read this book. A dog lovers must.
It is very well written and edited, and the photos of Lobo's life really add substance to the story. I have yet to read Blake's other works, but after this, I am sure that they will be page turners too.
Rachel Dove, The Kindle Book Review
Lobo is a beautiful dog, and having a six year old rescue dog from a pup myself, Blake's recollections of the early days had me laughing hysterically. The part about Lobo hiding under the bed and being lured out by chicken happened with my pup, and Russell tells the tale really well.
He obviously adores Lobo, this is apparent throughout, and the struggles man and dog face are amazing and endearing. I cried at the end and I would say, if you enjoyed Marley and Me, read this book. A dog lovers must.
It is very well written and edited, and the photos of Lobo's life really add substance to the story. I have yet to read Blake's other works, but after this, I am sure that they will be page turners too.
Rachel Dove, The Kindle Book Review
January 29, 2012
Russell Blake's "An Angel with Fur" tells the story of Lobo who was adopted by him when he was a mere 5 weeks old, from an animal shelter in Mexico. Lobo had amazing spirit and instantly charmed everyone he met. For Russell it was love at first sight and only grew from there. He shares Lobo's journey through life and the remarkable odds he overcame with a spirit and joy that never wavered.
The biography demonstrates just want kind of an impact on our lives the unconditional love and faithful companionship our furry friends can have. We are all richer for sharing our lives with them.
This is by far the best pet story/biography I've ever read. It was heart wrenching and triumphant both. I feel grateful to have been able to experience Lobo's spirit through Blake's words. Anyone who has ever loved a pet will be able to relate to this story.
The biography demonstrates just want kind of an impact on our lives the unconditional love and faithful companionship our furry friends can have. We are all richer for sharing our lives with them.
This is by far the best pet story/biography I've ever read. It was heart wrenching and triumphant both. I feel grateful to have been able to experience Lobo's spirit through Blake's words. Anyone who has ever loved a pet will be able to relate to this story.
July 27, 2012
AN ANGEL WITH FUR or Lobo just broke my heart! I laughed; I cried and then sort of felt sorry for the other dogs Mr. Blake brought into his home because they didn't get as much love as Lobo got! Mr. Blake told a love story that is just incredible and even if you don't love dogs, you can't not get attached to Lobo! Brought back all the heartaches of all the dogs I've owned and cared for and all the love and pure devotion they gave me and all the lessons they taught me! In today's world every dog deserves and needs his/her own family to love and care for! A heartbreaking read! Thanks Lobo! (and, Mr. Blake also.)
January 27, 2012
I am a firm believer in the saying, A Dog is Man's Best Friend. A dog will give you unconditional love and all it ask in return is for you to feed it, pet it once in a while and maybe supply a squeaky toy or two. In this relationship between dog and man, man comes out on the short end of the stick. At the most, a dog can only give you ten to twelve years. Every now and then a special dog comes along that touches your heart more than the rest. Lobo in An Angel With Fur was such a dog. I enjoyed this book and if you love dogs, you should read it.
April 2, 2012
Moving
This was an amusing but also amusing account of a Dog's life.
I am normally quite dubious when people tell you about their amazing pet but this did
A good job in conveying just how unique Lobo was.
It does get quite sad but in a good and heartfelt way. It is pretty funny in places and it is quite well written.
I am glad that I read this poignant and heartwarming account of a much loved and appreciated pet.
It even made me appreciate my own pets a bit more!
This was an amusing but also amusing account of a Dog's life.
I am normally quite dubious when people tell you about their amazing pet but this did
A good job in conveying just how unique Lobo was.
It does get quite sad but in a good and heartfelt way. It is pretty funny in places and it is quite well written.
I am glad that I read this poignant and heartwarming account of a much loved and appreciated pet.
It even made me appreciate my own pets a bit more!
March 16, 2012
I enjoyed the telling of this tale. It invoked "aw"s, smiles, laughs, "sure"s, nods, and even some minor shudders (with the furniture chewing). Just when I'm thinking, "Yes, I get this dog was special to you and had a great personality..." the whammy hits and there are gasps and more "aw"s and, well, it's an emotional roller coaster.
I would recommend it to anyone who loves animals.
I would recommend it to anyone who loves animals.
April 11, 2012
I consider it an honor to get to meet Lobo and learn about his life and courage. I have three dogs, so of course I could relate to many of the events the author shared about his pup.
I'm very thankful that my dogs have not been as ill and I would only hope that they would fight as hard as Lobo to stay with me.
I'm very thankful that my dogs have not been as ill and I would only hope that they would fight as hard as Lobo to stay with me.
March 20, 2013
As a Russell Blake fan I'm accustomed to being entertained, either with mind-blowing storytelling or hysterical dark humor. I didn't know he could make me sob uncontrollably too.
An Angel With Fur is a really a love story. And it's the best book he's written. If you're an animal lover you should read this.
An Angel With Fur is a really a love story. And it's the best book he's written. If you're an animal lover you should read this.
June 26, 2013
I thought this was an interesting story about a man who finally discovers how wonderful a dog can be. I was fortunate that growing up on a ranch I was raised with lots of animals and have formed strong bonds with a lot of them. It is good Mr. Blake had this experience and now devotes lots of energy to his dog friends.
October 27, 2011
Russell tells a story that, although familiar to many, is here told with such brutal honesty and self-expressive pain/pleasure that one feels the same loyalty and sense of obligation to Lobo as the author. Excellent job, Mr. Blake!
April 24, 2012
Fantastic book - well written and humorous. Loved the battles of will that take place. You can read the review at PetsWeekly
August 16, 2012
I enjoyed this book except for the predictable ending. It is funny and moving and at times heart-rending. As an animal- lover myself, it is always difficult to even think of the inevitable loss of our dear, dear animal friends.
October 5, 2012
This one's a Kindle freebie & I give it 2 stars although Blake seems to have cared to some degree for Lobo,a precious little fur ball of a puppy he adopted from a shelter in Mexico (Blake's home). It just seemed to me Blake was too bent on being the Alpha male versus more compassion & patience.
November 11, 2012
At first I thought this was going to be another story about a man getting his first dog and brags about everything the dog does, which he does; but it is much more. I was drawn into his story and laughed and cried with him. It is hard to lose your pet.
June 2, 2013
Just my luck...I finish a book about children with cancer and pick up this book about a dog ... and the book is about the dog's battle with cancer. Very touching. Now I'm looking for something cheery!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews