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The Gift of Pets: Stories Only a Vet Could Tell
"The life of a country veterinarian has never been as accessible since the bestselling books of James Herriot."--The Tucson Citizen on Ask the Animals
In Coston’s enjoyable second memoir, he again celebrates the gift of pets. Coston continues to work at his own veterinary practice in Virginia, meeting adorable pets and their loving and quirky owners every day. These include Precious the parrot, remarkably friendly and unafraid for a bird, Dahmun, or “Mountain of Love,” the Bull Mastiff, named by his linguist owner in a language he created, and Greco the beagle shepherd mix, who likes to eat rocks because he is too macho to chew on toys, his Greek owner insists. In stories ranging from humorous to heartfelt to tragic, this book makes a lovely gift for any animal lover.
In Coston’s enjoyable second memoir, he again celebrates the gift of pets. Coston continues to work at his own veterinary practice in Virginia, meeting adorable pets and their loving and quirky owners every day. These include Precious the parrot, remarkably friendly and unafraid for a bird, Dahmun, or “Mountain of Love,” the Bull Mastiff, named by his linguist owner in a language he created, and Greco the beagle shepherd mix, who likes to eat rocks because he is too macho to chew on toys, his Greek owner insists. In stories ranging from humorous to heartfelt to tragic, this book makes a lovely gift for any animal lover.
- GenresAnimalsNonfictionMemoir
449 pages, Hardcover
First published August 7, 2012
19 people are currently reading
152 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
June 14, 2019
If, possible I'd give this book ZERO stars. 1. The author refers to a one-eyed cat as "a pathetic invalid". 2. He declawed an office cat, then rehomed it due to inappropriate urination. (DUH). 3. A CVT passes away, and he euthanizes her dog (her wishes), despite the dog not being gravely ill. 4. He focuses on client's looks (mainly females) too heavily throughout this book. Misogyny everywhere. It's over, I survived. Now the library can have this awful book back. SHAME ON YOU Bruce Coston.
November 24, 2020
One star subtracted for being OK with declawing a cat instead of focusing on a fixing the behavioral problem or just rehoming, which he did eventually since declawing fixed nothing; also for euthanizing a healthy dog, because the owner didn't think he would cope with living with her family after her death.
August 22, 2012
This is Dr. Bruce Coston's second book, and it is well worth reading for any animal lover, whether your preference is for furry, feathered or scaled animals! Dr. Coston is a veterinarian reminiscent of James Herriot, the beloved country vet of years gone by. He sees a wide variety of patients, and treats them all with the same level of respect and attention. You will laugh, smile and cry throughout the book, as you get to know a large cast of characters. From the staff to the animal caretakers, everybody has a role to play. This book is well worth reading, and I definitely recommend it.
August 23, 2012
A must read for all animal lovers. Chock full of stories from the heart about the author, a vet himself. He begins with his "in training" days to become an equine vet to ending up with his own small animal practice/hospital. His stories are full of the ups and downs of being a veterinarian. But he tells the stories of both the animals he treats and their people. He has such insight into the mind and heart of the animal lover. I laughed and cried all the way through this book.
March 17, 2014
An enjoyable book written by a vet I wish lived next door! Dr. Coston cares very much for the animals he treats, and has a gift for healing. A pleasant book, written with both smiles and tears.
April 9, 2019
This book deserves so much more attention.
I came across to The Gift of Pets when I was looking for books written by vets. I didn't read Bruce Coston's first book (though I will purchase now) and was happy to see he's a very good writer. He takes us the readers into his clinic, at times almost making us feel like an assistant there with some awesome co-workers. I would say it's impossible to read this book and not wish to work with Bruce Coston and his team, maybe join Rachel to pull pranks.
There are some deeply moving stories that get difficult to read especially if you own a pet. I cried several times and had to skip some parts but it's the reality of the job (and life) so I'm happy he has added those stories and moments.
The vet tech Lisa is now a woman I admire. My best wishes to her, her family & friends, Dave as well. In addition to being a good writer, Bruce Coston also sounds like a great friend and manager.
This book really deserves 5 stars. The only reason I'm giving 4 is there's a small part about declawing and I very much disagree with Mr. Coston on when declawing is an acceptable procedure as I think it should only be done if it's a health necessity for the cat and there's no other option. Like any amputation.
I came across to The Gift of Pets when I was looking for books written by vets. I didn't read Bruce Coston's first book (though I will purchase now) and was happy to see he's a very good writer. He takes us the readers into his clinic, at times almost making us feel like an assistant there with some awesome co-workers. I would say it's impossible to read this book and not wish to work with Bruce Coston and his team, maybe join Rachel to pull pranks.
There are some deeply moving stories that get difficult to read especially if you own a pet. I cried several times and had to skip some parts but it's the reality of the job (and life) so I'm happy he has added those stories and moments.
The vet tech Lisa is now a woman I admire. My best wishes to her, her family & friends, Dave as well. In addition to being a good writer, Bruce Coston also sounds like a great friend and manager.
This book really deserves 5 stars. The only reason I'm giving 4 is there's a small part about declawing and I very much disagree with Mr. Coston on when declawing is an acceptable procedure as I think it should only be done if it's a health necessity for the cat and there's no other option. Like any amputation.
April 26, 2018
Okay, I'm a sucker for a good dog book, but this one is a great dog/pet/vet-told book. I loved it. So much so that I read it twice in less than a month. I checked out and enjoyed his first book, Ask the Animals, but this was my favorite of the two. This is the "can't put it down" volume. This vet has a heart not only for the animals he treats, but their owners, as his staff as as well. A must read for animal lovers and those who care for them. I laughed, cried, learned.
January 27, 2020
Dr. Coston comes across as someone who could be any animal lovers best friend. The veterinarian we all wished we had. I loved hearing stories from behind closed doors at the vets office, a place I visit frequently with my 3 dogs and 5 cats. I cried both sad and happy tears throughout this book and I would recommend it to anyone. Thanks for the great read Dr. Coston!
July 23, 2023
A collection of stories about a modern veterinary small animal practice with lot of medical and surgical detail. I would recommend this for readers interested in becoming a vet or vet tech, not so much for readers who are looking for a James Herriot read-alike. The stories are interesting but not as warm and humorous. TW for cancer.
August 16, 2023
The book itself had some very interesting stories. I am a vet tech, so it hits home for me, but I think anyone with pets could enjoy it. I knocked 2 stars off, because Dr.Coston had done a declawing surgery, and it almost seemed like he was trying to convince the reader that it is not as bad as it is. He also did a convenience euthanasia for one of his employees, which I am not fond of.
July 24, 2020
I laughed. I cried. It was a wonderful memoir showing the bond between animals and humans but also the bond between veterinarians and their colleagues and clients.
My one criticism is that the editor did not do a very good job.
My one criticism is that the editor did not do a very good job.
September 14, 2021
A Veterenarian’s stories about himself, his staff and the many animals he has treated, a sort of Diagnosis for animals, though these patients can’t talk.
Dr. Costeña is a beguiling writer. You can read these stories in one day as I did.
Dr. Costeña is a beguiling writer. You can read these stories in one day as I did.
July 22, 2019
Cute book of different pets and the beginning of his practice. He does go off on a tanget.
March 12, 2020
If you want a tear jerker, this is it.
May 10, 2020
I loved reading this!
June 25, 2021
Many veterinarians have tried to write like the immortal James Herriot but have failed…….until now!!!!
Dr. Coston can weave a story like a flowing river.
Do yourself a favor and buy a copy.
Dr. Coston can weave a story like a flowing river.
Do yourself a favor and buy a copy.
March 18, 2017
So warm and so real! Couldn't put it down.
Knowing that this was the second book, and probably Dr. Coston's last, I didn't want it to end. He cares so much about pets and the relationship between them and their humans that you feel as if you are there. When he is in surgery it is white knuckle time as you are looking over his shoulder hoping for a good outcome. Dr. Coston also shares insight and personnel interactions with the pets humans and with his veterinary staff such that you get the feeling that you know these people too. Great story and wonderfully told!
Knowing that this was the second book, and probably Dr. Coston's last, I didn't want it to end. He cares so much about pets and the relationship between them and their humans that you feel as if you are there. When he is in surgery it is white knuckle time as you are looking over his shoulder hoping for a good outcome. Dr. Coston also shares insight and personnel interactions with the pets humans and with his veterinary staff such that you get the feeling that you know these people too. Great story and wonderfully told!
September 9, 2019
This was a beautiful collection of stories. Some made me laugh and some made me cry. It was a very emotional read that just underscores how precious our animals are and how much we love them. I hope this author releases another collection because both that I have read have been superb.
February 18, 2017
Great collection of stories from a long practicing veterinarian. This book will make you cry and laugh. I liked his style of writing too. Just a fun book to read and not too heavy of reading.
June 8, 2014
I have always been a great fan of James Herriot and now we have our very own veterinarian story-teller in Virginia. Bruce Coston does a great job sharing his true stories of pets, their owners, and of the caring people who do their best to heal our animals.
Though the book is rated adult because of some very graphic descriptions of some of the treatments, I don't think there is anything in the book that our junior high school students can't handle. Our audience of readers is very drawn to animal stories and I'm sure this collection of true stories will pique their interest.
Dr. Coston sends this very touching poem by Ruby King Phillips to folks who have lost pets.
Today
I said goodby to a friend
Though there can be no end
To all he was to me.
With one last sigh
He drifted into sleep
And I was left to keep
Intact the gifts he gave. . . .
Eyes, warm and grave
That almost speak,
Small furry paw
Against my cheek,
Faithful presence
Always there beside my chair. . . .
Loyalty and utmost trust
Perish not nor turn to dust.
Beyond the cosmic reach of earth
Where only Love can be
Where Time cannot be measured
I know he's running free.(p. 9)
I like to read books with a packet of sticky-notes. When I finished The Gift of Pets, there were colored tags throughout the book. I rarely reread books but this is one of those books that I really think I could read again and find the same pleasure that I did upon first reading. I understand that Dr. Coston published a previous book. I will be looking for it.
Though the book is rated adult because of some very graphic descriptions of some of the treatments, I don't think there is anything in the book that our junior high school students can't handle. Our audience of readers is very drawn to animal stories and I'm sure this collection of true stories will pique their interest.
Dr. Coston sends this very touching poem by Ruby King Phillips to folks who have lost pets.
Today
I said goodby to a friend
Though there can be no end
To all he was to me.
With one last sigh
He drifted into sleep
And I was left to keep
Intact the gifts he gave. . . .
Eyes, warm and grave
That almost speak,
Small furry paw
Against my cheek,
Faithful presence
Always there beside my chair. . . .
Loyalty and utmost trust
Perish not nor turn to dust.
Beyond the cosmic reach of earth
Where only Love can be
Where Time cannot be measured
I know he's running free.(p. 9)
I like to read books with a packet of sticky-notes. When I finished The Gift of Pets, there were colored tags throughout the book. I rarely reread books but this is one of those books that I really think I could read again and find the same pleasure that I did upon first reading. I understand that Dr. Coston published a previous book. I will be looking for it.
August 27, 2012
I had to return this book to its owner, so even though I was enjoying it, I only made it halfway through. I'd like to visit with it again one day. It's a very well-written account of a small town veterinarian talking about his career in the field. He portrays scenes that make the reader want to keep reading. For someone who's not a writer by trade, he's produced an impressive book, though at times he does slow down the text with descriptions of vet-talk that he could have edited down. Overall, though, it's a great book. I recommend it to animal lovers everywhere.
June 13, 2016
Vicki, Central patron, June 2016, 5 stars:
To my surprise, this story was written in a setting not far from home. The author, Veterinarian Bruce Coston, practices in Woodstock, Va. Dr. Coston writes a heartwarming book that tells his story of becoming a veterinarian, and the consequent cases that he sees. Interwoven is a tribute to his vet tech. Lisa, who shares what Coston calls the Gift. The compassion and interweaving of science, hands and heart in the treatment of beloved pets. This is a book any pet lover will enjoy.
To my surprise, this story was written in a setting not far from home. The author, Veterinarian Bruce Coston, practices in Woodstock, Va. Dr. Coston writes a heartwarming book that tells his story of becoming a veterinarian, and the consequent cases that he sees. Interwoven is a tribute to his vet tech. Lisa, who shares what Coston calls the Gift. The compassion and interweaving of science, hands and heart in the treatment of beloved pets. This is a book any pet lover will enjoy.
October 9, 2012
If you're an animal lover...have a box of tissues ready. Coston does an excellent job showcasing the unspeakable bond between pet & owner, through good times & bad. His stories will make you laugh & most definitely cry. And if you currently own a pet, trust me, you will be showering them with lots of love once you're done. I couldn't leave my golden retriever alone for days! Pets truly are a gift.
February 5, 2013
I don't believe in coincidences. I am currently dealing with a post operative horse. This book was just what I needed to confirm how much of a gift my horse is along with good thoughts about dealing with decisions involving a sick animal. Colson writes through both the eyes of a vet and a real understanding of the complicated relationships between a person and their beloved pet. He is just one of the really good vets out there that we depend on to take care of our gifts!
November 23, 2020
This book was such a treat! Bruce is the first author of this genre that really reminded me of James Herriot, except from a more modern, American feeling to the stories. Wonderful stories, heartwarming, funny, sad, poignant and meaningful. Bruce also includes the whole story of a lady who became a beloved employee and it was very touching.
I needed more after I finished this book and located his first book, "Ask the Animals," which I'm thoroughly enjoying as well.
I needed more after I finished this book and located his first book, "Ask the Animals," which I'm thoroughly enjoying as well.
March 22, 2015
Great Book
I really enjoyed this book! The stories about the patients were very good and interesting. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes to read about veterinarians and their patients.
I really enjoyed this book! The stories about the patients were very good and interesting. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes to read about veterinarians and their patients.
October 16, 2012
A quick read for all pet lovers.
July 15, 2013
I'm laughing out loud! Great descriptions
June 25, 2014
Awesomeness! Like a modern day James Harriet
June 26, 2014
So many vet memoirs claim to be a "modern day James Herriot," but this one actually was. I laughed, cried, and enjoyed the whole book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews