Rescue Dogs: Where They Come From, Why They Act the Way They Do, and How to Love Them Well

by Pete Paxton, Gene Stone

A fascinating look at rescue dogs--where they come from, why every dog lover should consider adopting one, and how to make them part of your family.

America's leading undercover animal investigator, Pete Paxton, has, among other exploits, infiltrated more than seven hundred puppy mills, worked undercover to close one of the largest and most infamous puppy mills in the United States, and shuttered the most notorious trafficker of dogs for experimentation in history. In this book, he shares stories of the amazing dogs he has rescued and brought to loving families, and also offers invaluable guidance and wisdom for anyone living with rescue dogs.

Far too many people think rescue dogs have irredeemable anxieties, behavior issues, or other problems. In truth, rescue dogs can--and do--become wonderful companions. This groundbreaking book will help readers understand these dogs' unique ways of thinking, learning, and loving, and leaves no questions unanswered about the plight of dogs commercially bred in the United States--and what every dog lover can do about it.

Genres: Nonfiction, Dogs, Animals, Audiobook

256 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 2019

Reviews

[Caitlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t even know where to begin - I thought I knew why rescuing dogs is so important, but after reading this, I didn’t even know the half of it. I was constantly in tears, I couldn’t make it through any chapter without breaking down, and I was so moved the whole time by this man and the amazing work he has done for dogs.

I didn’t think I could make it through the chapters detailing the horrors of corrupt kennels and puppy mills but I felt it was owed to the dogs who have endured these places (and are still enduring them) to keep reading in order to remember them and honour them and get educated on how to make change happen and become a part of the movement working hard to save them all. I want the whole world to read this! I honestly couldn’t put it down, something I don’t think I’ve ever said about any non-fiction book ever.

[Pamela Kramer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is amazing. Beautifully written, it will have any dog lover in tears. "Pete" puts himself through what is pure torture, seeing dogs abused, killed, starved, and worse, and he can't help them because he is gathering evidence undercover. The book is filled with his stories and important information about rescuing a dog. I've been in rescue for decades, and currently have dogs and cats -- none of whom I've picked out -- and Pete's story is real. Please read it.

[Toni · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is one, that really makes you see so many things. I really enjoyed this book. I purchased it on audiobooks. Com. Definitely worth it

[Maudaevee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an interesting and sad look at how dogs end up in need of rescue, specially if you are unaware of how badly animals are treated in the USA still. I'm biased as someone that volunteers and fosters for animal shelters and a rescue mom myself (my dog Bryson was a police confiscation from a meth lab, he was considered ineligible for adoption at shelter due to his anxiety but he really came around after spending time in a normal family environment and is now my best buddy and I can't imagine not having him with me). I hope books like this will encourage more people to get involved and improve our overall animal welfare in this country.

[Cara Achterberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rescue Dogs was one part true-crime, one part instructions on bringing home a rescue dog, and one part get-your-butt-off-the-couch-and-help.

While the book focused on purebred dogs from puppy mills and commercial breeders, many of the same issues arise when you bring home any shelter pet. It wasn't always easy to listen to the stories of animal abuse that occur all too often in purebred breeding operations, but his devotion and his ability to put the big-picture before his emotions was admirable. If we intend to move the needle on stopping the killing of adoptable dogs in this country, we need more of that attitude.

What I loved most about this book, though, was Pete's attitude toward the individual animal. He urges the reader to look beyond breed to the dog as an individual. To love the dog not because of the way he looks or his pedigree, which he shows is rarely what it seems, but because every animal deserves your respect, loyalty, and love.

As an animal advocate, I heartily endorse this important book that will touch hearts and open minds and hopefully not just convince more people to adopt a dog from a rescue or shelter, but inspire them to get involved in changing the situation for too many animals in this country.

#togetherwerescue

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am taking a hard time rating this book because parts of it I'd give a solid 5 stars, but other parts 2 or 3. It's very well written - an easy and enjoyable read (aside from the heart wrenching content). He does a great job telling stories and painting the pictures. I could imagine every place, every dog, every situation. My critiques are that it felt disjointed. Half the book talks about the horrific puppy mills, which I learned a lot from, but I definitely felt it was too long and didn't leave room for the other parts. There were really Randleman little bits about what gear you need, how to train a dog, what to feed them, etc that didn't feel like it needed to be in here. I'm not sure what I was hoping for, but it definitely didn't go into the depth in the places I wanted it to.

Still a great read for anyone considering getting a dog, but I'd definitely suggest to skip certain sections.

[Alexandrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is wonderful! Every dog lover and animal lover should read it. The author recounts a few of his experiences as an undercover investigator in puppy mills and the fire it lit in me is raging! Our companion animals deserve better than the fates of some in these stories, and this book is an inspiring step to make that positive change. I'd give it 10 stars if I could!

[Julia M · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing read. I’m touched. Beyond words. Give your pups an extra cuddle tonight.

[Brian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great insight and stories about dog rescue that most rescuers would never see: From the the POV of an undercover animal welfare investigator.

As with many books about dog rescue, there are parts that are very difficult to read, but that's part of what makes this such a valuable book. Getting readers involved emotionally which hopefully gets more people involved in dog rescue or animal welfare of any kind.

After part 1 "Rescue Stories", parts 2 and 3 change gears abruptly and get into how to choose a rescue dog, bringing him into your home, training him, and finally joining the animal rescue community. It felt like I started a completely different book halfway through. That being said, the information Paxton gives is really good — very common sense stuff that a lot of people would benefit from knowing.

[Cammie Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think everyone should read this book or one similar to this. Wow - although I've known about puppy mills, read a number of articles & books - this one is an eye-opener. Even if you aren't in the market for a dog... this is a MUST read!! If we would all adopt from a shelter or buy from a RESPONSIBLE breeder... these mills & some backyard breeders would be put out of business!

I also liked that this book wasn't full of horror stories. Half-way through the book the author talks about how to adopt a rescue dog - what to look for, how to find an organization & how to raise them & give them all the love you have.

Highly recommended!

Thank God there are people in this world who do this kind of work - for those of us who are passionate enough, but lack the stomach to deal with such abuse.

[Drea · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's very rare that I come across a rescue-related book that paints a picture of what animal rescue looks like in all ways, shapes, and forms so accurately. These chapters explain why rescue is important, what the reality really looks like, including what entities allow these atrocities to continue to stay perfectly legal. But that's not where he stops. After blowing the lid off of the bullshit that took me years in rescue to fully understand, this beautiful man gives you further instruction on how you can take that new burning sensation inside your chest and channel it for the betterment of those who cannot defend themselves. No matter what level of involvement that means for you. This book should be required reading for humanity.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is written in three parts. The first part are rescue stories about specific puppy mills and dogs rescued. The second part is about dealing with rescue/new dog including basic training. The third part is how you can help from adopting rescues instead of breeders, volunteering at shelters and even being an activist. The first part are the heart tugging stories which are the major part of the book. I have extreme admiration for Pete’s hard work in doing this crucial work that is necessary to make a difference by shutting down these places, or changing laws when current ones are not sufficient to do so.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid 3.5 stars. This book was engaging and taught me a lot I didn’t know about the commercial industry of breeding and selling dogs. There were many parts that were difficult to read. I learned some good stuff about working with my own rescue dogs but could have used more. I also wish the tips and advice section in the last third was more distributed throughout the book. Overall a worthwhile read.

[andrea sbordone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book should be read for those who are looking to buying a dog. There are so many dogs out there who are in need of a loving home in shelters across the country. Undercover Pete Paxton opened my eyes to how much worse it really was for these unfortunate animals. I have three rescues I adopted from Texas and Georgia and they are the most loving dogs. Hopefully those who have read this book will adopt a rescue and give them a second chance.

[Marina · Rating 3 out of 5]

The first part of the book was the one I enjoyed the best. The second part was about adopting, housing, training, etc. your new rescue dog. I skipped over most of that part because it was stuff I was already well aware of. And the third part was a good resource for how different rescues can work and how you can involve yourself in that process no matter the time or money you have (or don't have).

[Caitlyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

this book is a three parter
1 authors undercover work to expose and hold those accountable those who sell dogs via puppy mills or into animal research etc

2 understanding the rescue in your home

3 how to support rescues

parts 2 and 3 were nothing to new for me but really found it informative to read the first pad

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author explains how puppy mills should be shut down and his time as an investigator working to get puppy mill owners shut down. He looks at the damage done to dogs by those who only view puppies as a way to make money. In later chapters he gives pointers on how to acclimate a rescue dog into a home.

[Craig · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good information on rescuing dogs. Mostly about the bad situations; which does play into the why they act out (but there was less of this). still, and interesting book, well written; very engaging stories throughout!

[Sherry Callear · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! Very relatable writing and enjoyed his honesty and real life experience stories.

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was phenomenal. The stories about the undercover investigations were genuinely engaging and impactful. There's also some great beginner advice for force-free training.

[Jenn · Rating 3 out of 5]

A great look into the puppy mill industry. Very sobering and sad. This confirms my commitment to the rescue community in my hometown.

[Linda Ballenger · Rating 3 out of 5]

Informative

[Heather Del · Rating 5 out of 5]

Made me fall in love with my little rescue pupperoo all over again 🐕🐶❤️

[Layla · Rating 3 out of 5]

First half of this book was super interesting as you learn about the author’s investigations. The second half was redundant as someone who works with a dog rescue.

[Carol Egan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great choice for someone who doesn't really understand why it's important not to buy a dog from a petstore.

[Danita L · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is not a book about rescue dogs. The title is completely misleading.

It is a self-serving book by Pete Paxton (not the author's real name) and his "life" as somebody who "helps" find puppy mills.

The book is absolutely terrible.