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Cute Poodles, Sweet Old Ladies and Hugs: Veterinary Tales
Dr. P. J. Miller's story is unique. Growing up in New York City, who would have thought that he’d complete his veterinary degree at the Royal School of Veterinary Studies in Edinburgh, Scotland? In Cute Poodles, Sweet Old Ladies & Hugs, Dr. Miller has assembled a "greatest hits" of veterinary tales—stories that include colorful clients, wisecracking hospital staff, and pets that aren't always friendly.
Cute Poodles, Sweet Old Ladies & Hugs provides a humorous look at what Dr. Miller went through to become a veterinarian and his daily life as a doctor, told only as a typical New Yorker could. Underneath the humor, Dr. Miller gives a glimpse of how strong and emotional the human-animal bond can be, becoming an instant must-read for any aspiring veterinary professional or animal lover that wants to know what it is really like to be a veterinarian.
See his website for further information about the book and for more veterinary tales http://www.yodrmiller.com/
Cute Poodles, Sweet Old Ladies & Hugs provides a humorous look at what Dr. Miller went through to become a veterinarian and his daily life as a doctor, told only as a typical New Yorker could. Underneath the humor, Dr. Miller gives a glimpse of how strong and emotional the human-animal bond can be, becoming an instant must-read for any aspiring veterinary professional or animal lover that wants to know what it is really like to be a veterinarian.
See his website for further information about the book and for more veterinary tales http://www.yodrmiller.com/
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First published June 1, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
October 9, 2017
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
A quick and easy read, 'Cute Poodles' follows the day to day life of a veterinarian as we meet his clients, and learn a little about what it's like to be a pet doctor. Because it's not just about extracting anal glands....
This was a short read, and the stories that are told are relatively succinct, however it is obvious that the author isn't a natural writer. Sometimes the writing feels disjointed, as if we're following the authors train of thoughts rather than following a tangible storyline. Some facts were also repeated a couple of times. I enjoyed the history regarding medical school, although as a Brit, I obviously didn't need a run down on what 'A levels' are (which were provided with an inaccurate detail - I took A levels at sixth form, not secondary school).
What really stood out for me were the stories relating to the clients and their pets. After all, that's what makes a vet. At heart I love stories that are intrinsically linked to society, and people, and their quirks and varying personalities. Why should pets be any different? I was particularly fond of Cuddles (who could not have had a more inaccurate name) and Marshall the bulldog. The author writes with obvious care and passion, and it's clear he really does love animals. It's also clear that vet techs are the unsung heroes of veterinary care. I don't know anyone else who could be bit, scratched, and defecated on repeatedly and still turn up for work the next day.
As an added bonus, since becoming a dachshund owner in January, I've been keen to learn more about my little sausage and was intrigued to read that they quite often suffer from pancreatitis. I appreciated little tit bits of information like this sprinkled throughout the book, and I would have liked more. In fact, because it was so shortt, I felt that this really did just skim the surface on what veterinary practice is like.
A nice insight into vet life, but I wanted more insight.
A quick and easy read, 'Cute Poodles' follows the day to day life of a veterinarian as we meet his clients, and learn a little about what it's like to be a pet doctor. Because it's not just about extracting anal glands....
This was a short read, and the stories that are told are relatively succinct, however it is obvious that the author isn't a natural writer. Sometimes the writing feels disjointed, as if we're following the authors train of thoughts rather than following a tangible storyline. Some facts were also repeated a couple of times. I enjoyed the history regarding medical school, although as a Brit, I obviously didn't need a run down on what 'A levels' are (which were provided with an inaccurate detail - I took A levels at sixth form, not secondary school).
What really stood out for me were the stories relating to the clients and their pets. After all, that's what makes a vet. At heart I love stories that are intrinsically linked to society, and people, and their quirks and varying personalities. Why should pets be any different? I was particularly fond of Cuddles (who could not have had a more inaccurate name) and Marshall the bulldog. The author writes with obvious care and passion, and it's clear he really does love animals. It's also clear that vet techs are the unsung heroes of veterinary care. I don't know anyone else who could be bit, scratched, and defecated on repeatedly and still turn up for work the next day.
As an added bonus, since becoming a dachshund owner in January, I've been keen to learn more about my little sausage and was intrigued to read that they quite often suffer from pancreatitis. I appreciated little tit bits of information like this sprinkled throughout the book, and I would have liked more. In fact, because it was so shortt, I felt that this really did just skim the surface on what veterinary practice is like.
A nice insight into vet life, but I wanted more insight.
October 26, 2017
3 grrr&wauu Stars
Disclaimer: Copy provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
“I don’t think Mrs. Sweet goes anywhere. She arrives. When she showed up, it was a major production. The first thing you noticed was her fancy shirt or sweater. I don’t know where she found her gear, but every shirt or sweater had poodles incorporated in one way or another.”
This was such a funny, informative, quick read.
Is a book you probably would find me reading while being on a trip or between heavy books. I requested this copy because the cover caught my attention and it sounded hilarious, I mean all pet owners like me know going to the vet is the trip of our lives. And this book delivered humor and knowledge, which I was surprised. I found quite interesting to know what happens when the owners leave and how vets manage the situations. Although I would have enjoyed a bit more of humor throughout the whole book, it would make it more appealing to all audiences.
Recommended if you love animals, and or people who are a vets.
Disclaimer: Copy provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
“I don’t think Mrs. Sweet goes anywhere. She arrives. When she showed up, it was a major production. The first thing you noticed was her fancy shirt or sweater. I don’t know where she found her gear, but every shirt or sweater had poodles incorporated in one way or another.”
This was such a funny, informative, quick read.
Is a book you probably would find me reading while being on a trip or between heavy books. I requested this copy because the cover caught my attention and it sounded hilarious, I mean all pet owners like me know going to the vet is the trip of our lives. And this book delivered humor and knowledge, which I was surprised. I found quite interesting to know what happens when the owners leave and how vets manage the situations. Although I would have enjoyed a bit more of humor throughout the whole book, it would make it more appealing to all audiences.
Recommended if you love animals, and or people who are a vets.
December 2, 2025
as a huge fan of james herriot, i was quite excited to read this book- i was positive memoirs written by vets just have to be good. i was wrong.
not everyone should write a book. i think the easiest test to determine whether you should or shouldn’t is asking the question “do i have something interesting to say?”
dr miller did NOT. this book is neither interesting, nor funny, nor informative. just a man talking about himself. my nightmare.
not everyone should write a book. i think the easiest test to determine whether you should or shouldn’t is asking the question “do i have something interesting to say?”
dr miller did NOT. this book is neither interesting, nor funny, nor informative. just a man talking about himself. my nightmare.
August 27, 2024
I enjoyed this vet book with the vivacious staff, quirky owners and sweet (for the most part) pets. This was a relaxing read as every chapter was different.
October 11, 2017
This was an enjoyable and fairly short read, with various stories from Dr. Miller's veterinary career. There are some humorous stories and some cantankerous customers, as well as some emotive anecdotes. Also rather helpfully I learnt some facts about dogs and cats, which as a pet-owner I was actually unaware of - a good bonus to this book!
There was a substantial chapter on Dr. Miller's training to become a vet, which did not interest me and I felt really dragged. I read the book for the stories about 'cute poodles, sweet old ladies and hugs', as the title would suggest - not for Miller's trials and tribulations on the way to qualifying as a vet.
I enjoyed the stories, although I found that some of them had far too much detail and could have been told much more succinctly. I would have liked to see less about Miller's training, and a few more (and briefer) stories. On the whole this is an enjoyable read for the anecdotes, but I felt it could have offered more.
There was a substantial chapter on Dr. Miller's training to become a vet, which did not interest me and I felt really dragged. I read the book for the stories about 'cute poodles, sweet old ladies and hugs', as the title would suggest - not for Miller's trials and tribulations on the way to qualifying as a vet.
I enjoyed the stories, although I found that some of them had far too much detail and could have been told much more succinctly. I would have liked to see less about Miller's training, and a few more (and briefer) stories. On the whole this is an enjoyable read for the anecdotes, but I felt it could have offered more.
August 9, 2019
As Dr Miller says, this isn't a touchy-feely book. But the pages turn easily! The cases run from routine to intriguing, the patient/owner stories are all too real, and another perspective of veterinary practice is always interesting. I'm moving right along into the doctor's second book!
January 30, 2018
Animals, humor and crazy old ladies. Perfect book to break up the violence in the books I usually read.
Would read more by this author if he releases anymore books.
That is all.
*Huge thanks to P.J. Miller, thirty8street Publishing and NetGalley for this copy which I chose to read and all opinions are my own*
Would read more by this author if he releases anymore books.
That is all.
*Huge thanks to P.J. Miller, thirty8street Publishing and NetGalley for this copy which I chose to read and all opinions are my own*
July 20, 2018
This is such a good book and the stories are so readable and brilliant. The only thing I regret each time, is that I don't have any pets because I live in a flat.
September 27, 2019
Interesting
Tales from a vet clinic. It’s interesting to read how a vet diagnoses different pet issues and how different pet parents behave! Some good and some just terrible.
Tales from a vet clinic. It’s interesting to read how a vet diagnoses different pet issues and how different pet parents behave! Some good and some just terrible.
October 13, 2017
I love reading stories about animals and that's why this book caught my eye. I enjoyed it ... it was a fun book to read.
Born and raised in New York City and getting his veterinary education in Edinburgh, Scotland, Dr. Miller is currently a vet in Florida. This is his experience of life as a vet. In addition to telling stories about some of his patients and their colourful owners, Dr. Miller also tells us how he became a vet (going to university in Florida and then transferring to Edinburgh, Scotland), going to conferences and needing coverage at his practice, and his devoted but comical staff.
There was one story that I could relate to of a client who had a dog who had became diabetic. The man didn't think he had it in him to check the dog's glucose level every day and give insulin shots. Our cat, Morgan, (who passed away in April) became diabetic when he got older and we went through that with him for a few years. I never thought I'd be able to give him his needles but you do what you have to do because they are family. Once I got used to it, it wasn't an issue.
Though some might not like the writing style, I did ... I found Dr. Miller funny and sarcastic. His love for animals is obvious.
I'm sure he has many more stories to tell and I look forward to reading them.
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2017/10...
Born and raised in New York City and getting his veterinary education in Edinburgh, Scotland, Dr. Miller is currently a vet in Florida. This is his experience of life as a vet. In addition to telling stories about some of his patients and their colourful owners, Dr. Miller also tells us how he became a vet (going to university in Florida and then transferring to Edinburgh, Scotland), going to conferences and needing coverage at his practice, and his devoted but comical staff.
There was one story that I could relate to of a client who had a dog who had became diabetic. The man didn't think he had it in him to check the dog's glucose level every day and give insulin shots. Our cat, Morgan, (who passed away in April) became diabetic when he got older and we went through that with him for a few years. I never thought I'd be able to give him his needles but you do what you have to do because they are family. Once I got used to it, it wasn't an issue.
Though some might not like the writing style, I did ... I found Dr. Miller funny and sarcastic. His love for animals is obvious.
I'm sure he has many more stories to tell and I look forward to reading them.
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2017/10...
September 6, 2017
Did you ever want to read a story what is it like to be a veterinarian? If you answer is “yes’’ and if you want to read a story that, not only it will show you the “way and the life of a veterinarian’’ but also the depth behind it (and trust me, there is depth in this novel), Cute Poodles, Sweet Old Ladies and Hugs: Veterinary Tales by PJ Miller is a novel for you.
What makes this novel so different from others? First, it is a novel about a vet (the title suggests that and makes it somewhat obvious). So, what can be so special about a veterinarian? All he does is tending for injured animals. That is true. However, when we go with the novel, we will see that there is so much in it than just descriptions of everyday life of a vet. People love their pets and as we read the novel, we get the feeling that our main protagonist also loves them, so there is some depth in it. This is commendable, because if there were not for depth of inter-human relationship between our protagonist and the pet owners, the novel would be somewhat incomplete. Therefore, Cute Poodles, Sweet Old Ladies and Hugs: Veterinary Tales is a lot more than just a story about some vet and his everyday life as a vet. I recommend reading it, especially if you love pets and if you have one.
What makes this novel so different from others? First, it is a novel about a vet (the title suggests that and makes it somewhat obvious). So, what can be so special about a veterinarian? All he does is tending for injured animals. That is true. However, when we go with the novel, we will see that there is so much in it than just descriptions of everyday life of a vet. People love their pets and as we read the novel, we get the feeling that our main protagonist also loves them, so there is some depth in it. This is commendable, because if there were not for depth of inter-human relationship between our protagonist and the pet owners, the novel would be somewhat incomplete. Therefore, Cute Poodles, Sweet Old Ladies and Hugs: Veterinary Tales is a lot more than just a story about some vet and his everyday life as a vet. I recommend reading it, especially if you love pets and if you have one.
October 6, 2017
This novel by PJ Miller takes the reader on the journey of Dr. Miller’s adventure as a veterinarian. This 187-page book will tell a few funny and heartwarming tales about the various animals he has helped and the memorable owners who have stopped by his office.
Besides reading about these stories, you’ll also learn a little about what it means to be a veterinarian. Dr. Miller gives great insight into the daily life of a vet as he has to work to find cures for various problems and figure out how to help ease the pain of animals. He’ll also explain a little more behind his life and how he was inspired to become a vet.
This is a great novel to read, especially if you’re an animal lover. If you’re looking for an enjoyable and touching novel that is a quick read, this is one you should definitely consider.
Besides reading about these stories, you’ll also learn a little about what it means to be a veterinarian. Dr. Miller gives great insight into the daily life of a vet as he has to work to find cures for various problems and figure out how to help ease the pain of animals. He’ll also explain a little more behind his life and how he was inspired to become a vet.
This is a great novel to read, especially if you’re an animal lover. If you’re looking for an enjoyable and touching novel that is a quick read, this is one you should definitely consider.
February 10, 2019
Animals and people's bizarre characters
This is a great book on a vet's life. From school to graduated Dr.
The crazy a d funny cases, to the bizarre characters of quirky people.
That range from, loving and responsible pet owners to people who couldn't
Care less about their pets health. Then those who think the Vet. Dr. should
Work for nothing, that they owe them to treat their pets. Along with the
refreshing rare people who care and value their pets Dr. and give him/her
the respect they deserve and show them their gratitude for caring for their
Pets. This is the crazy, zany, and bizarre story's of a vet's daily life. You will
Laugh yourself silly and shake your head in disbelief. A great and refreshing
book to read. This book is right up a animal lovers alley.
Debra H.
This is a great book on a vet's life. From school to graduated Dr.
The crazy a d funny cases, to the bizarre characters of quirky people.
That range from, loving and responsible pet owners to people who couldn't
Care less about their pets health. Then those who think the Vet. Dr. should
Work for nothing, that they owe them to treat their pets. Along with the
refreshing rare people who care and value their pets Dr. and give him/her
the respect they deserve and show them their gratitude for caring for their
Pets. This is the crazy, zany, and bizarre story's of a vet's daily life. You will
Laugh yourself silly and shake your head in disbelief. A great and refreshing
book to read. This book is right up a animal lovers alley.
Debra H.
September 6, 2017
Witty and fun
Being a vet tech, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Dr Miller is fun and has a way of writing his stories that keeps me laughing. Between his sassy techs and interesting clients he keeps the stories moving smoothly and full of energy. It's refreshing to know that my clinic isn't the only one that has their fair share of interesting clients! He's kind of has a small animal city view next to James Herriots country vet take on things, but with a similar personality and writing style. Im looking forward to reading more from Dr Miller in the future! I loved his mondayist Monday story's!
Being a vet tech, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Dr Miller is fun and has a way of writing his stories that keeps me laughing. Between his sassy techs and interesting clients he keeps the stories moving smoothly and full of energy. It's refreshing to know that my clinic isn't the only one that has their fair share of interesting clients! He's kind of has a small animal city view next to James Herriots country vet take on things, but with a similar personality and writing style. Im looking forward to reading more from Dr Miller in the future! I loved his mondayist Monday story's!
October 31, 2017
Do you want to be a Vet? Then you should read this. Miller tries to cover all the bases: his triumphs and tragedies, his wish to become a Veterinarian, going to pre-vet school and his lucky alternative, his practice and his trusty techs who are the foundation of any Veterinarian practice, his good days and not so good days.
While not as well written as James Herriot’s many book on being a Vet in England years before and not as humorous, this is nevertheless a very readable account of all you might encounter as a Veterinarian or as a Vet tech, and for that reason, a must read for anyone thinking of making Veterinary medicine a career.
While not as well written as James Herriot’s many book on being a Vet in England years before and not as humorous, this is nevertheless a very readable account of all you might encounter as a Veterinarian or as a Vet tech, and for that reason, a must read for anyone thinking of making Veterinary medicine a career.
July 11, 2022
When I saw the cover and the title of this book, I was hoping for a funny book full of anekdotes from the world of a pet doctor, but unfortunately, the book doesn't really deliver on its percieved promise. There are a couple of stories about the pets and of their owners, but few of them are told in a compelling way. There is a long, bland chapter on medical school that may be telling a part of the author's life that is interesting to him and to others who work in the field, but that seems to have little to do with the premise of the book. The whole book feels a bit disjointed, with not enough humor nor depth to compensate for its lack of structure.
October 11, 2017
This book was a quick read, but it is enjoyable. The writing itself can be a little clunky, but the overall stories and experiences that are shared make it worth while. If you are an animal lover or are considering becoming a veterinarian, this book is for you! The stories as well as behind-the-scenes information paints a picture of the overall life and work of a veterinarian. The most memorable experiences as well as pets are shared, and many are heart warming and will put a smile on your face. Be prepared for a few laughs as you step into the life of Dr. P.J. Miller.
August 6, 2019
Good stories horrible employees
I like his writing style, doesn't get bogged down the the stories were really good. I gave it a 3 because of his employees. Didn't find it funny at all, I found it abusive and no idea why anyone would keep an employee like Jen. I read the 2nd book and even worse. I was sorry, too, as he was very upbeat in his writing and doesn't seem to find her insulting abrasive and abusive. Don't know if he's grown up in a place that that seems totally acceptable to him but it brought down the tone of the book.
I like his writing style, doesn't get bogged down the the stories were really good. I gave it a 3 because of his employees. Didn't find it funny at all, I found it abusive and no idea why anyone would keep an employee like Jen. I read the 2nd book and even worse. I was sorry, too, as he was very upbeat in his writing and doesn't seem to find her insulting abrasive and abusive. Don't know if he's grown up in a place that that seems totally acceptable to him but it brought down the tone of the book.
October 25, 2017
This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. The story flowed very well and was very enjoyable. This book will keep you reading long into the night and you will not want to put this book down until you finish. This was such a great read and full of surprises. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader’s copy of this book. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
November 26, 2017
I enjoyed this book....a look into a veterinary clinic, some of it's clients & cases. I'd guess that it's pretty accurate, as I have a friend that runs such a clinic. It's an easy, quick, relate-able read, & done in nicely managed chapters. I'd guess that since many/most people own & love their pets.....then many/most people might find something of interest here.
I received this e-book from NetGalley, in return for my own honest review. All opinions are my mine alone.
I received this e-book from NetGalley, in return for my own honest review. All opinions are my mine alone.
February 4, 2019
A day in the vet clinic
I really enjoyed the stories told by this vet. His stories about getting into vet school and not fitting in made him a likable character. My biggest complaint was the poor editing. It appeared there were words missing at times, causing me to reread a sentence to make sense of it. Though it might be his style, the storytelling seemed choppy. I enjoyed the case stories, as I do love animals.
I really enjoyed the stories told by this vet. His stories about getting into vet school and not fitting in made him a likable character. My biggest complaint was the poor editing. It appeared there were words missing at times, causing me to reread a sentence to make sense of it. Though it might be his style, the storytelling seemed choppy. I enjoyed the case stories, as I do love animals.
February 14, 2019
Delightfully Droll
I admit, the title of this book intrigued me so much, I had to read it. Having 3 rescue dogs currently and having had many more (and two cats) over the last 40+ years, I read lots of books by vets, about vets, etc. This was a great read and it wasn't overly saccharine nor was it sad (no one died). It's good to see things from the vet's side. Thoroughly enjoyable!
I admit, the title of this book intrigued me so much, I had to read it. Having 3 rescue dogs currently and having had many more (and two cats) over the last 40+ years, I read lots of books by vets, about vets, etc. This was a great read and it wasn't overly saccharine nor was it sad (no one died). It's good to see things from the vet's side. Thoroughly enjoyable!
August 6, 2019
Disappointing
I think a few other reviews have said the same thing.. I wouldn't really want this man as my vet. He seemed to complain about everything, even things he claimed he liked, for instance the seminar he went to....I especially took offense at a comment about unnecessary questions, clients are not doctors and there are NO unnecessary questions if they feel the need to ask them..
I think a few other reviews have said the same thing.. I wouldn't really want this man as my vet. He seemed to complain about everything, even things he claimed he liked, for instance the seminar he went to....I especially took offense at a comment about unnecessary questions, clients are not doctors and there are NO unnecessary questions if they feel the need to ask them..
January 20, 2018
Very cute vet read!
I LOVED this book. Very realistic and informative. Not over done or boring. Anyone who likes animals and wonders how it is to be in the veterinarian 's shoes will appreciate this read. It's got a lot of good humor to it and just the right length for this type of book. The ending was great! R
I LOVED this book. Very realistic and informative. Not over done or boring. Anyone who likes animals and wonders how it is to be in the veterinarian 's shoes will appreciate this read. It's got a lot of good humor to it and just the right length for this type of book. The ending was great! R
February 9, 2019
Pets unlimited
Love the premise. Dr. Miller love his work and the pets he gets to take care of. It is modern and up to date and a lot of fun. The Veterinarian is a busy person, but I love that he gives all his Techs such good references. I love that there are fun and some really challenging characters, usually the owners of said pets.
Love the premise. Dr. Miller love his work and the pets he gets to take care of. It is modern and up to date and a lot of fun. The Veterinarian is a busy person, but I love that he gives all his Techs such good references. I love that there are fun and some really challenging characters, usually the owners of said pets.
February 13, 2019
Feel good reading
Nice overview of the life of a veteranarian. A difficult occupation at best, since the patients cannot describe their own symptoms. Interesting to observe the use of technology via various tests that assist the vet with a diagnosis. It is easy to understand why vet school is as long as medical school. An engrossing read.
Nice overview of the life of a veteranarian. A difficult occupation at best, since the patients cannot describe their own symptoms. Interesting to observe the use of technology via various tests that assist the vet with a diagnosis. It is easy to understand why vet school is as long as medical school. An engrossing read.
January 27, 2023
Was looking for a quick read with a hint of comedic value and this was just what I needed! Snapshots of life as a vet, peculiar cases and Disney mums at conferences, what more could you need for a pick me up? Be warned, if you are Scottish and listening to this on Audible, the whole way through, our capital city is Edin-borrow.
October 8, 2023
I was a little sceptical at first… I have grown up with reading the James Herriot books… and how would an American “version” be … the first chapter was a little ott,and what I was expecting… but after that it was a lot more interesting and I really enjoyed it, although I found the ending a little abrupt…., off now to the second book
December 12, 2023
A collection of whimsical anecdotes from veterinarian Doctor Miller. From his student days to his many eccentric clients, this is a funny collection of stories.
The cast of difficult clients, loving pets, and sassy veterinary tech staff make for a good set of anecdotes. I did enjoy this.
The audible version is very well read by L. J. Ganser, too. Would definitely recommend that version.
The cast of difficult clients, loving pets, and sassy veterinary tech staff make for a good set of anecdotes. I did enjoy this.
The audible version is very well read by L. J. Ganser, too. Would definitely recommend that version.
October 25, 2017
A series of stories from a vet concerning diabetic pets, old ladies in t-shirts with poodles on them and an understanding that dogs can not have strokes.
Miller has a light and friendly writing style and the book is a simple read.
And hey, don't feed your pet your table scraps.
Miller has a light and friendly writing style and the book is a simple read.
And hey, don't feed your pet your table scraps.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews