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獸醫超日常：犰狳、鬃狼，有時還有綠鬣蜥，《侏羅紀世界：殞落國度》特聘獸醫顧問的跨洲診療紀實
高危險、長工時、低時薪，是獸醫不足為外人道的日常。
而獸醫的「超」日常，則是親手診療百種動物，
甚至與珍奇物種來個親密接觸。
《侏儸紀世界：殞落國度》獸醫顧問對動物最深情的告白！
從六歲起，他就認定自己的天職是獸醫
申請大學時，卻被全英國的獸醫學院拒於門外
當他終於穿上醫師袍，走入診間和農場
被動物病患與牠們的主人整得七葷八素，甚至遠渡南非
為野生動物保育貢獻心力－－
他知道，這就是他夢寐以求的生活！
從家畜、同伴動物到瀕危物種，從英國鄉間跨足非洲草原，
這是一名以獸醫為天職的男人，與二十種動物，最難以忘懷的相遇。
強納森‧克蘭斯頓打從六歲便很清楚，動物在自己的生命中有多麼不可或缺。而獸醫則是他的天職，直到成年，這份初心都未曾改變。即使申請入學時多次被拒，他仍鍥而不捨，在十三次閉門羹之後，終於如願進入獸醫學院，並於五年後取得獸醫資格。直到現在，他的生活仍被動物所圍繞，這也是他的人生意義之所在；有動物之處，便是人間樂園。
身為一名鄉間獸醫，克蘭斯頓診治過的動物可謂不尋常－－一般寵物自不待言，他也醫治過牛羊家畜，然而他參與的還不只這些，也包括遠赴南非，為野生動物進行捕捉遷移、臨床治療。也是在畢業之後，他才面對現實：原來，關於治療動物，五年的獸醫課程根本只是起點而已！
◎ 對一名準獸醫而言，下列哪項技能可於學院課程中習得？
● 為蜜袋鼯結紮。
● 幫全身覆滿鱗甲的犰狳植晶片。
● 替沒了心跳的長頸鹿施行心肺復甦術。
● 懷孕的母牛因子宮捻轉而難產，在不剖腹的前提下為母牛接生。
獸醫是十分具有挑戰性的行業，其辛苦程度不下於人醫，但面對語言不通的動物、充滿期待的飼主，乃至於各種危險的突發狀況，獸醫往往更需要隨機應變的性格、細膩非凡的觀察力，以及極高的抗壓性。
而獸醫也絕不僅僅只是處理動物的問題，更要處理「人」的問題。唯有全心擁抱「溝通」之道，理解動物的天性與需要，才能真正領略人與動物之間那份美好強大的牽絆。為動物工作，能讓最傲慢的人都學會謙卑，而為野生動物工作更是如此。在本書中，強納森‧克蘭斯頓以一名摯愛動物之人所能擁有的最大熱情，帶領讀者走進他的診療室，乃至於一般人難以涉足的野生動物保育區，讓我們一窺獸醫這個職業可能面臨的挑戰，以及自然界物種有多麼神奇奧妙，震撼人心。貫穿全書的，是他對獸醫這門專業，以及對整個動物界的關懷。對於喜愛吉米．哈利《大地之歌》、杜瑞爾《希臘三部曲》，勞倫茲《所羅門王的指環》的讀者，本書將喚回他們內心最深沉的感動。
「一想到我所選擇的職業穩居自殺率排行榜前幾名，而且與大眾認知相反，按照工時換算，獸醫界的普遍薪資其實低於法定基本工資，我就不禁覺得幻滅。我全身上下傷痕累累，有咬傷、踢傷、抓傷、刺傷、割傷、縫傷、踩傷、壓傷、踏傷和撞傷；我受過各種體液的洗禮，有血液、膿液、尿液、糞液、羊水、瘤胃內容物、肛門腺分泌物和分解潰爛的組織；我曾不小心跳進飼料坑、兩次把車開進大水溝、跌到池塘裡，甚至染上牛結核病，胸腔積水兩公升，必須住院治療，後續還花了整整一年才康復。
……所以，如果人生重來一次，我的心意會有一絲一毫的改變嗎？答案是堅定果決的：『不會。』」
－－強納森‧克蘭斯頓
◎ 審訂者：泛科學、《國語日報》專欄作家、台師大生態演化組碩士／曾文宣
◎ 作者強納森‧克蘭斯頓為電影《侏儸紀公園》系列作《侏儸紀世界：殞落國度》獸醫顧問，從未見過恐龍的他，因為接觸過不下百種動物，擁有極為豐富的診療經驗，故受邀為該部電影中的恐龍場景擔任指導，負責解答片中關於恐龍的各種問題。本書乃是他執業十年以來首次生涯回顧，記錄了他精彩絕倫的獸醫人生中與二十種動物的交手經驗，時而荒謬爆笑，時而驚險萬分，有些段落更讓人忍不住熱淚盈眶。
◎ 本書介紹二十種動物，包括犰狳、長頸鹿、天鵝、雪豹、山羊、大象、雞、鬃狼、荷斯登牛、犀牛、驢、貂、大貓熊、豬、綠鬣蜥、鱷魚、袋鼠、斑馬、蜜袋鼯、牛羚。每章章末並收錄該動物的相關知識，從學名、俗名、保育、分布地區、棲地特性、飲食習慣、孕期或孵化期、組織構造、趣味軼事等，不一而足。
而獸醫的「超」日常，則是親手診療百種動物，
甚至與珍奇物種來個親密接觸。
《侏儸紀世界：殞落國度》獸醫顧問對動物最深情的告白！
從六歲起，他就認定自己的天職是獸醫
申請大學時，卻被全英國的獸醫學院拒於門外
當他終於穿上醫師袍，走入診間和農場
被動物病患與牠們的主人整得七葷八素，甚至遠渡南非
為野生動物保育貢獻心力－－
他知道，這就是他夢寐以求的生活！
從家畜、同伴動物到瀕危物種，從英國鄉間跨足非洲草原，
這是一名以獸醫為天職的男人，與二十種動物，最難以忘懷的相遇。
強納森‧克蘭斯頓打從六歲便很清楚，動物在自己的生命中有多麼不可或缺。而獸醫則是他的天職，直到成年，這份初心都未曾改變。即使申請入學時多次被拒，他仍鍥而不捨，在十三次閉門羹之後，終於如願進入獸醫學院，並於五年後取得獸醫資格。直到現在，他的生活仍被動物所圍繞，這也是他的人生意義之所在；有動物之處，便是人間樂園。
身為一名鄉間獸醫，克蘭斯頓診治過的動物可謂不尋常－－一般寵物自不待言，他也醫治過牛羊家畜，然而他參與的還不只這些，也包括遠赴南非，為野生動物進行捕捉遷移、臨床治療。也是在畢業之後，他才面對現實：原來，關於治療動物，五年的獸醫課程根本只是起點而已！
◎ 對一名準獸醫而言，下列哪項技能可於學院課程中習得？
● 為蜜袋鼯結紮。
● 幫全身覆滿鱗甲的犰狳植晶片。
● 替沒了心跳的長頸鹿施行心肺復甦術。
● 懷孕的母牛因子宮捻轉而難產，在不剖腹的前提下為母牛接生。
獸醫是十分具有挑戰性的行業，其辛苦程度不下於人醫，但面對語言不通的動物、充滿期待的飼主，乃至於各種危險的突發狀況，獸醫往往更需要隨機應變的性格、細膩非凡的觀察力，以及極高的抗壓性。
而獸醫也絕不僅僅只是處理動物的問題，更要處理「人」的問題。唯有全心擁抱「溝通」之道，理解動物的天性與需要，才能真正領略人與動物之間那份美好強大的牽絆。為動物工作，能讓最傲慢的人都學會謙卑，而為野生動物工作更是如此。在本書中，強納森‧克蘭斯頓以一名摯愛動物之人所能擁有的最大熱情，帶領讀者走進他的診療室，乃至於一般人難以涉足的野生動物保育區，讓我們一窺獸醫這個職業可能面臨的挑戰，以及自然界物種有多麼神奇奧妙，震撼人心。貫穿全書的，是他對獸醫這門專業，以及對整個動物界的關懷。對於喜愛吉米．哈利《大地之歌》、杜瑞爾《希臘三部曲》，勞倫茲《所羅門王的指環》的讀者，本書將喚回他們內心最深沉的感動。
「一想到我所選擇的職業穩居自殺率排行榜前幾名，而且與大眾認知相反，按照工時換算，獸醫界的普遍薪資其實低於法定基本工資，我就不禁覺得幻滅。我全身上下傷痕累累，有咬傷、踢傷、抓傷、刺傷、割傷、縫傷、踩傷、壓傷、踏傷和撞傷；我受過各種體液的洗禮，有血液、膿液、尿液、糞液、羊水、瘤胃內容物、肛門腺分泌物和分解潰爛的組織；我曾不小心跳進飼料坑、兩次把車開進大水溝、跌到池塘裡，甚至染上牛結核病，胸腔積水兩公升，必須住院治療，後續還花了整整一年才康復。
……所以，如果人生重來一次，我的心意會有一絲一毫的改變嗎？答案是堅定果決的：『不會。』」
－－強納森‧克蘭斯頓
◎ 審訂者：泛科學、《國語日報》專欄作家、台師大生態演化組碩士／曾文宣
◎ 作者強納森‧克蘭斯頓為電影《侏儸紀公園》系列作《侏儸紀世界：殞落國度》獸醫顧問，從未見過恐龍的他，因為接觸過不下百種動物，擁有極為豐富的診療經驗，故受邀為該部電影中的恐龍場景擔任指導，負責解答片中關於恐龍的各種問題。本書乃是他執業十年以來首次生涯回顧，記錄了他精彩絕倫的獸醫人生中與二十種動物的交手經驗，時而荒謬爆笑，時而驚險萬分，有些段落更讓人忍不住熱淚盈眶。
◎ 本書介紹二十種動物，包括犰狳、長頸鹿、天鵝、雪豹、山羊、大象、雞、鬃狼、荷斯登牛、犀牛、驢、貂、大貓熊、豬、綠鬣蜥、鱷魚、袋鼠、斑馬、蜜袋鼯、牛羚。每章章末並收錄該動物的相關知識，從學名、俗名、保育、分布地區、棲地特性、飲食習慣、孕期或孵化期、組織構造、趣味軼事等，不一而足。
288 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 4, 2019
17 people are currently reading
155 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
August 26, 2024
ilmselt pole seda raamatut võimalik lugeda ilma autorit James Herrioti ja Gerald Durrelliga võrdlemata. kahjuks ta kummagi mõõtu päriselt välja ei anna ja seda eelkõige kirjutamisoskuse koha pealt - see ei olnud kuskilt otsast halb tekst, aga kuidagi... puisevõitu suurem osa ajast.
muidu Herriot tuleb tal paremini välja kui Durrell - minu kindlad lemmikud olid kõik need lood, mis juhtusid tavalises loomaarstipraksise igapäevaelus. muidugi on raske ületada kanepijoobes tuhkrut või siseruumides põgenema pääsenud känguru, aga mulle tegid tavalised lehma- ja kitselood ka väga palju rõõmu. ja mulle tegi rõõmu lugeda kõigist neist inimestest, kellega tal tuli kokku puutuda - farmerid ei tundu olevat Herrioti ajast suuremat muutunud, aga need tuhkru- ja iguaaniomanikud kerkisid mulle ka selgelt silme ette ja ausalt, sedasorti rahvast võiks ma lugeda veel ja veel, väga meelelahutuslik!
ega vist keegi poleks viitsinud seda raamatut kirjutada ja kirjastada, kui seal ei oleks sees neid Aafrika-jutte. ja idee ongi ju lahe, et suurem osa aastast kiibistad koeri ja vaktsineerid kasse ja aegajalt vb keegi tõesti sajab vöölasega ka sisse, aga üldiselt tavaline elu - ja siis igal suvel saad helikopteri ja džiibiga savanni mööda elevante ja kaelkirjakuid taga ajada. aga ma ei tea, need tagaajamislood olid omavahel äravahetamiseni sarnased ja kuigi ma saan täiesti aru, et kõik oli õilsa eesmärgi nimel ja loomi mitte ei tapetud, vaid koliti ringi nende endi heaolu huvides, ja et loomaarsti on sellise projekti juures väga tarvis... oli sel kõigel ikkagi mu jaoks selline trofeeküttimise maik juures. eriti vaadates pilte, kus laia naeratusega härra poseerib küll teadvuseta elevandiga ja küll teadvuseta sebraga. midagi nagu valesti polnud, aga veidi maitsetu tundus.
muidu Herriot tuleb tal paremini välja kui Durrell - minu kindlad lemmikud olid kõik need lood, mis juhtusid tavalises loomaarstipraksise igapäevaelus. muidugi on raske ületada kanepijoobes tuhkrut või siseruumides põgenema pääsenud känguru, aga mulle tegid tavalised lehma- ja kitselood ka väga palju rõõmu. ja mulle tegi rõõmu lugeda kõigist neist inimestest, kellega tal tuli kokku puutuda - farmerid ei tundu olevat Herrioti ajast suuremat muutunud, aga need tuhkru- ja iguaaniomanikud kerkisid mulle ka selgelt silme ette ja ausalt, sedasorti rahvast võiks ma lugeda veel ja veel, väga meelelahutuslik!
ega vist keegi poleks viitsinud seda raamatut kirjutada ja kirjastada, kui seal ei oleks sees neid Aafrika-jutte. ja idee ongi ju lahe, et suurem osa aastast kiibistad koeri ja vaktsineerid kasse ja aegajalt vb keegi tõesti sajab vöölasega ka sisse, aga üldiselt tavaline elu - ja siis igal suvel saad helikopteri ja džiibiga savanni mööda elevante ja kaelkirjakuid taga ajada. aga ma ei tea, need tagaajamislood olid omavahel äravahetamiseni sarnased ja kuigi ma saan täiesti aru, et kõik oli õilsa eesmärgi nimel ja loomi mitte ei tapetud, vaid koliti ringi nende endi heaolu huvides, ja et loomaarsti on sellise projekti juures väga tarvis... oli sel kõigel ikkagi mu jaoks selline trofeeküttimise maik juures. eriti vaadates pilte, kus laia naeratusega härra poseerib küll teadvuseta elevandiga ja küll teadvuseta sebraga. midagi nagu valesti polnud, aga veidi maitsetu tundus.
August 17, 2020
Это, конечно, не Хэрриот, потому что, во-первых, время действия уже не то, а, во-вторых, пациенты, как правило, более экзотические. И все бы ничего, и истории интересные, но перевод просто ужасен. Чувство, что это автоматический перевод через гугл - громоздкие конструкции, в том числе, в диалогах, нерусское построение предложений, буквальный перевод устойчивых выражений, который не передает смысл и выглядит глупо. "Разглядев его, до меня дошло, что тело млекопитающего покрыто броней", " - Ты можешь мне помочь? - Абсолютно", и тому подобные вещи делают чтение очень тяжелым. Обычно я вообще не замечаю подобные косяки, но в этом издании они действительно сильно испортили впечатление от книги. 4 за содержание, 2 за перевод, если не 1.
January 31, 2019
What a fascinating book! I could read these heartwarming stories about wild, domestic and farm animals all day long. The tales were humorous and engaging, from being covered in various animal bodily fluids to running over a farmer's bird! Some stories were extremely saddening but imperative that these horrific daily occurrences are discussed.
I thought the fast facts about each animal were a very interesting addition, I found them educating and intriguing. Facts such as elephants possibly going extinct in the wilds of Africa within twelve years was a shocking discovery, it brings these problems to the minds of everyone no matter where you live.
The illustrations were absolutely beautiful and added elegance to each page. I would thoroughly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading and learning about animals.
I thought the fast facts about each animal were a very interesting addition, I found them educating and intriguing. Facts such as elephants possibly going extinct in the wilds of Africa within twelve years was a shocking discovery, it brings these problems to the minds of everyone no matter where you live.
The illustrations were absolutely beautiful and added elegance to each page. I would thoroughly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading and learning about animals.
January 5, 2019
I enjoyed reading this right from the beginning to its end. This is not a cosy, furry friend kind of book, although it does have a few furries...
There are some quite, in depth chapters about the animals, their care and the many different methods of catching, sometimes, wild animals to treat them.
Each of the chapters relates to a different creature, it could be a snow leopard or an armadillo, and includes many interesting facts about each one, along with some very funny and touching moments.
I felt this was a more modern, realistic version of the James Herriot books and a very interesting read.
There are some quite, in depth chapters about the animals, their care and the many different methods of catching, sometimes, wild animals to treat them.
Each of the chapters relates to a different creature, it could be a snow leopard or an armadillo, and includes many interesting facts about each one, along with some very funny and touching moments.
I felt this was a more modern, realistic version of the James Herriot books and a very interesting read.
February 9, 2019
Üldiselt raamat mulle meeldis. Lemmikuteks olid narkomanist tuhkur ja väidetavalt kihlasõrmuseid neelav leeguan, muidugi üheskoos oma omanike ja teiste kõrvaltegelastega. Rohkem meeldisidki kuidagi need peatükid, kus arst tegeles kodu- ja lemmikloomadega.
November 17, 2018
You could have a nice little drinking or chocolate scoffing game in the early chapters of this book having one of your chosen "treats" every time the author mentions he has wanted to be a vet since he was 6 years old - You won't get to the second chapter if you do this however, fortunately the author then does step back on mentioning it quite significantly and I was beginning to dread it being mentioned every other page. As you can tell this did annoy me, probably more than is reasonable if I'm being honest.
Each tale in the book is about a different client of his - be they a sugar glider, a donkey or even a Giant Panda. There is not too much about normal domestic pets though so unless you have experience of a more unusual or exotic pet then there is nothing to compare the experiences of owner and vet to. The nearest we get is a brief foray in to the Theatrical Donkey, and Cattle. True, there is a chapter on Goats but this seems to be more about an unfortunate wetsuit incident then the animal.
I did enjoy the book but Jonathan Cranston is no James Herriott. He has a good turn of phrase and a certain wit that is necessary for this sort of tale but something is missing. I suspect this is the connect we manage to feel with not only the vet himself but colleagues within the practice and their range of patients in James Herriott's books; there is none of this within Mr Cranston's writing. The nearest we get to learning about any individual (other than the author) is Bjorn in the Wildlife Team in South Africa.
Each chapter ends with some basic information about the particular species in an easily digestible format. There are also links to various Wildlife Organisations relating to the particular animal. Whilst I can see the point of these sections they do break the stories up and it becomes a strange cross between a light reference book and a set of loosely linked short stories.
To be entirely honest if you want an emotional journey involving animals then plump for Gerald Durrell or James Herriott, you will likely find those far more satisfying. This isn't a bad book but you won't get sucked in to the characters and their situations in the same way as these trailblazers in the genre have done.
I RECEIVED A FREE COPY OF THIS BOOK FROM READERS FIRST IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.
Each tale in the book is about a different client of his - be they a sugar glider, a donkey or even a Giant Panda. There is not too much about normal domestic pets though so unless you have experience of a more unusual or exotic pet then there is nothing to compare the experiences of owner and vet to. The nearest we get is a brief foray in to the Theatrical Donkey, and Cattle. True, there is a chapter on Goats but this seems to be more about an unfortunate wetsuit incident then the animal.
I did enjoy the book but Jonathan Cranston is no James Herriott. He has a good turn of phrase and a certain wit that is necessary for this sort of tale but something is missing. I suspect this is the connect we manage to feel with not only the vet himself but colleagues within the practice and their range of patients in James Herriott's books; there is none of this within Mr Cranston's writing. The nearest we get to learning about any individual (other than the author) is Bjorn in the Wildlife Team in South Africa.
Each chapter ends with some basic information about the particular species in an easily digestible format. There are also links to various Wildlife Organisations relating to the particular animal. Whilst I can see the point of these sections they do break the stories up and it becomes a strange cross between a light reference book and a set of loosely linked short stories.
To be entirely honest if you want an emotional journey involving animals then plump for Gerald Durrell or James Herriott, you will likely find those far more satisfying. This isn't a bad book but you won't get sucked in to the characters and their situations in the same way as these trailblazers in the genre have done.
I RECEIVED A FREE COPY OF THIS BOOK FROM READERS FIRST IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.
November 7, 2021
This book by Dr.Jon inspires me by his various encounter as a vet, and experience not only as a small animal vet and also a wildlife doctor. If you are someone who aspire to be a vet, read and and experience it to have a picture of what to do in vet school and life after graduation!
December 10, 2018
“The greatness of a nation can be judged by the way its animals are treated”
Vet, Jonathan Cranston, is no ordinary vet. As well as his day to day job role in your average English veterinary practice treating household pets and farm animals; Jonathan also has extensive experience of working with amazing species around the world which includes Snow Leopards and Giant Pandas. This book draws on Jonathan’s experiences in his career some of which are hilarious and others that are heart wrenching.
I was lucky enough to be sent a copy of this book from Readers First. This is not my normal type of book however I love animals and the idea of following a vet on his journey really appealed to me. I loved this book so much, I found that it was so interesting and such a refreshing read. Jonathan dedicated this book to his dog Max, HIS DOG, as soon as I read this I instantly knew that I was going to enjoy my reading experience! This book explored so many themes, some of which I laughed and some of which I cried. From the sadness and realisation of the seriousness of poaching Rhino horns in South Africa and other countries in the world to a Ferret in the veterinary practice who was high from its owners stash of cannabis. The book also has various intervals whereby photographs are inserted to show different experiences that Jonathan has had in his career. I found these fascinating and felt that with these included I was able to engage further into the story and his life. I did find that in some parts the book dragged with the scientific terms and procedures which I did not understand, however I’m not a vet so surely it wasn’t meant to appeal to me anyway. Being a vet has never been a desire for me in my life so far, however after reading this book at the age of 26 I am sat wondering whether a change in career is possible! Honestly, I think everybody should read this book, it was truly fantastic and one that I highly recommend.
Vet, Jonathan Cranston, is no ordinary vet. As well as his day to day job role in your average English veterinary practice treating household pets and farm animals; Jonathan also has extensive experience of working with amazing species around the world which includes Snow Leopards and Giant Pandas. This book draws on Jonathan’s experiences in his career some of which are hilarious and others that are heart wrenching.
I was lucky enough to be sent a copy of this book from Readers First. This is not my normal type of book however I love animals and the idea of following a vet on his journey really appealed to me. I loved this book so much, I found that it was so interesting and such a refreshing read. Jonathan dedicated this book to his dog Max, HIS DOG, as soon as I read this I instantly knew that I was going to enjoy my reading experience! This book explored so many themes, some of which I laughed and some of which I cried. From the sadness and realisation of the seriousness of poaching Rhino horns in South Africa and other countries in the world to a Ferret in the veterinary practice who was high from its owners stash of cannabis. The book also has various intervals whereby photographs are inserted to show different experiences that Jonathan has had in his career. I found these fascinating and felt that with these included I was able to engage further into the story and his life. I did find that in some parts the book dragged with the scientific terms and procedures which I did not understand, however I’m not a vet so surely it wasn’t meant to appeal to me anyway. Being a vet has never been a desire for me in my life so far, however after reading this book at the age of 26 I am sat wondering whether a change in career is possible! Honestly, I think everybody should read this book, it was truly fantastic and one that I highly recommend.
August 20, 2020
Jonathan Cranston writes an interesting non-fiction book composed of short anecdotes from his years of veterinary practice both in Britain and in more exotic locations. Each chapter concludes with a fact sheet on the animal discussed in the chapter. I found out some very interesting facts; such as that a group of Leopards is a Leap and a group of Rhinos is a Crash!
Despite the somewhat gory descriptions of Rhino poaching, this book is definitely suitable for younger readers interested in animals. I’m going to try it for a 9.5 year old girl who is passionate about reading and David Attenborough films. It’s a great primer about both the glory and the boredom of being a vet in practice.
This is a very attractive hardback book that I felt proud to be carrying around with me (is it strange to say that?). My old James Herriot novels weren’t a matched set and were properly beaten up by the time I had read and reread them (I once upon a time wanted to be a vet). It begs the questions though: why are all vets with popular mainstream novels from Britain? Why don’t we have any Australian vets with great stories? I mean, I’m sure we do, but it hasn’t come to my attention yet.
I used this as light reading that I could dip in and out of before bed, and while travelling in the car. It’s not in my pile for rereading, but I think it has earned a place on my shelf as a modern veterinary book.
Did you enjoy this goodreads review? If so you may find it useful to visit my blog The Cosy Dragon . I regularly post new reviews on a variety of genres.
Despite the somewhat gory descriptions of Rhino poaching, this book is definitely suitable for younger readers interested in animals. I’m going to try it for a 9.5 year old girl who is passionate about reading and David Attenborough films. It’s a great primer about both the glory and the boredom of being a vet in practice.
This is a very attractive hardback book that I felt proud to be carrying around with me (is it strange to say that?). My old James Herriot novels weren’t a matched set and were properly beaten up by the time I had read and reread them (I once upon a time wanted to be a vet). It begs the questions though: why are all vets with popular mainstream novels from Britain? Why don’t we have any Australian vets with great stories? I mean, I’m sure we do, but it hasn’t come to my attention yet.
I used this as light reading that I could dip in and out of before bed, and while travelling in the car. It’s not in my pile for rereading, but I think it has earned a place on my shelf as a modern veterinary book.
Did you enjoy this goodreads review? If so you may find it useful to visit my blog The Cosy Dragon . I regularly post new reviews on a variety of genres.
November 23, 2018
This book will certainly be a big hit with all animal lovers of all nations. It will delight and amuse them and also teach them a great deal not only about the everyday needs and facts of animals but also the ways in which to deal with them.
The book tells us there are 20,000 veterinary surgeons in the uk who are qualified to treat our pets and the animals around us.....but I wonder how many animal lovers there are who will just love this book and all the tales within it. A lot more than the number of vets!!
So many experiences to chuckle over and talk about.
There are also some superb colour photos which are an added bonus many showing the author who always seems to be smiling and looking extremely happy in his work.
This is a book that is sure to please those of us who love animals and has the added bonus of a chapter an animal so is easily picked up anytime without losing the continuity.
The book tells us there are 20,000 veterinary surgeons in the uk who are qualified to treat our pets and the animals around us.....but I wonder how many animal lovers there are who will just love this book and all the tales within it. A lot more than the number of vets!!
So many experiences to chuckle over and talk about.
There are also some superb colour photos which are an added bonus many showing the author who always seems to be smiling and looking extremely happy in his work.
This is a book that is sure to please those of us who love animals and has the added bonus of a chapter an animal so is easily picked up anytime without losing the continuity.
November 23, 2018
I should say straight out that I am a bit of vocabulary geek so my favourite part of this book was that the fact section after each animal story included the collective noun for the creature involved. Manna from heaven for me - who knew a group of giant pandas was an embarrassment!
Anyhow wordy geekiness aside, this is an entertaining book with each of the 20 chapters containing an anecdote about a member of the animal kingdom that the author has treated (or moved around).
Jonathan is no ordinary vet so this is isn't a tale of cute kitties and daft dogs. Oh no, we have animals ranging from the Armadillo to the Zebra and locations from darkest Devon to deepest Africa.
The stories are amusing, moving and varied and his love of our fellow creatures shines through.
A good smattering of photos helps bring his tales to life and some of the conservation facts are sobering.
A great read - if only to be dazzled by the collective noun for zebras!
Anyhow wordy geekiness aside, this is an entertaining book with each of the 20 chapters containing an anecdote about a member of the animal kingdom that the author has treated (or moved around).
Jonathan is no ordinary vet so this is isn't a tale of cute kitties and daft dogs. Oh no, we have animals ranging from the Armadillo to the Zebra and locations from darkest Devon to deepest Africa.
The stories are amusing, moving and varied and his love of our fellow creatures shines through.
A good smattering of photos helps bring his tales to life and some of the conservation facts are sobering.
A great read - if only to be dazzled by the collective noun for zebras!
April 23, 2022
Як багато ви знаєте про братів менших? (якщо не враховувати, що деякі на пару метрів вищі або довші за тебе)
Джонатан розповідає щось нове про тварин (а тут є кози, жирафи, броненосці, барси, слони, носороги, тхори, ігуани) з гумором, не дивлячись на складність та небезпеку своєї професії. Якщо ви думаєте, що небезпека пов'язана з тим, що тебе можуть куснути або баднути, то спробуйте зловити жирафа або зібрати в загін зебр, а крокодилів перевезти? Ніколи не думала, що ветеринари потрібні у цих справах.
У Кренстона є безмежна любов до тварин. Навіть беручи пологи у корови він залишився весь мокрий це не відбило бажання продовжувати їм допомагати.
Не думайте, що в книзі лише веселощі, в ній багато болю. Болі тварин, які страждають від людей. Одних вбивають заради грошей, інших заради веселощів і їх не хвилює, що види винищуються. Це дуже сумні моменти.
Після читання хоч один задумається, що тваринам треба допомагати.
Бережіть природу та себе
Джонатан розповідає щось нове про тварин (а тут є кози, жирафи, броненосці, барси, слони, носороги, тхори, ігуани) з гумором, не дивлячись на складність та небезпеку своєї професії. Якщо ви думаєте, що небезпека пов'язана з тим, що тебе можуть куснути або баднути, то спробуйте зловити жирафа або зібрати в загін зебр, а крокодилів перевезти? Ніколи не думала, що ветеринари потрібні у цих справах.
У Кренстона є безмежна любов до тварин. Навіть беручи пологи у корови він залишився весь мокрий це не відбило бажання продовжувати їм допомагати.
Не думайте, що в книзі лише веселощі, в ній багато болю. Болі тварин, які страждають від людей. Одних вбивають заради грошей, інших заради веселощів і їх не хвилює, що види винищуються. Це дуже сумні моменти.
Після читання хоч один задумається, що тваринам треба допомагати.
Бережіть природу та себе
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 25, 2018
This book has been throughly enjoyable from beginning to end.
Don’t be expecting a James Herriot kind of cosy feel as that isn’t how this book is, this book goes a lot more into talking about the animals and the different methods used in treating them and in the case of some of the wild animals the trapping and bringing them down.
Each chapter is about a different animal and the treatment that it needs,the armadillo one was really quite funny, after each chapter there is a page or two of interesting facts, it really felt like I was learning a lot more about the animals than I ever thought I would know.
The story of the snow leopard and the back story that went with it was particularly nice.
I read the book over two days and would highly recommend it, Jonathon,the vet, certainly knows how to tell a story
Don’t be expecting a James Herriot kind of cosy feel as that isn’t how this book is, this book goes a lot more into talking about the animals and the different methods used in treating them and in the case of some of the wild animals the trapping and bringing them down.
Each chapter is about a different animal and the treatment that it needs,the armadillo one was really quite funny, after each chapter there is a page or two of interesting facts, it really felt like I was learning a lot more about the animals than I ever thought I would know.
The story of the snow leopard and the back story that went with it was particularly nice.
I read the book over two days and would highly recommend it, Jonathon,the vet, certainly knows how to tell a story
November 17, 2018
Warm and interesting
I really enjoyed 'The travelling vet'. Right from the very first page the reader could tell this was the story of someone who cares deeply about animals, and that's a comforting fact to animal fans. The book itself was full of interesting tales from the authors work and travels across four continents dealing with many different species. It's exciting, it's interesting,it's warm, sometimes funny, sometimes sad. This is a book that many people of all ages will enjoy. I especially liked the little illustrations that accompanied each new chapter of the animal to be mentioned, I also especially liked that at the end of each chaptervfact sheets and links have been included on each species, so the reader gets to learn a bit more.
I really enjoyed 'The travelling vet'. Right from the very first page the reader could tell this was the story of someone who cares deeply about animals, and that's a comforting fact to animal fans. The book itself was full of interesting tales from the authors work and travels across four continents dealing with many different species. It's exciting, it's interesting,it's warm, sometimes funny, sometimes sad. This is a book that many people of all ages will enjoy. I especially liked the little illustrations that accompanied each new chapter of the animal to be mentioned, I also especially liked that at the end of each chaptervfact sheets and links have been included on each species, so the reader gets to learn a bit more.
November 17, 2018
This book was just a nice book to read. I liked that every story was about an encounter with an animal and his funny little antidotes about them. I could see this book being good for people who aren’t mega into reading as each story is like a short story and you don’t need to know the last chapter to know the next one. What I found lacking was maybe the more dramatic experiences or times he made a mistake. By the end all the stories were the same, animal needed to be darted, darted animal, moved animal, animal safe in new place away from the mean people. I really liked that at the end of each chapter there was some interesting facts on the creatures, I can see myself reciting some of the facts at random moments!
I got this book free from readersfirst in exchange for an honest review.
I got this book free from readersfirst in exchange for an honest review.
November 24, 2018
This is a beautiful book. Before I even get onto the content of writing - the design is exceptional! I love the fact that each chapter has a pretty illustration of the animal being talked about and the photo pages add an extra that makes the book that little bit more special, particularly to give as a gift!
I am a big animal lover of all creatures small and large so this book seemed like it was made for me - it is such (as far as I know) a unique concept and because it is told from a real vet perspective it made it so much more interesting because I knew the stories and facts were true and valid.
Loved that this book made me laugh, tear up and even learn with added facts - I am going to buy another copy as a gift!
I am a big animal lover of all creatures small and large so this book seemed like it was made for me - it is such (as far as I know) a unique concept and because it is told from a real vet perspective it made it so much more interesting because I knew the stories and facts were true and valid.
Loved that this book made me laugh, tear up and even learn with added facts - I am going to buy another copy as a gift!
November 29, 2018
This book was wonderous! An absolute joy to read and incredibly fascinating. Who would think that a local vet had treated such an array of different and fascinating animals. It made for an enthralling, hard to put down read as you wonder how many different types of animal The Travelling Vet had attended to. There were many heartwarming moments of animals being cured and surviving aswell as some heartbreaking passages aswell. Oh to have been a fly on the wall (no flies were treated in this book)!!! The book was written with good humour and grace and I am sure will feature on Bestsellers lists as a charmibg, cozy read. I cannot recommend this book enough. Beautifully written and definetely one to watch!
December 1, 2018
Each chapter of this book is devoted to a different type of animal and they range from domestic pets to Nile Crocodiles. Jon spends a lot of time in South Africa helping relocate animals with teams of specialists in that field. The stories are fascinating and help you to realise what work goes into these projects. The animals are wild and not used to be handled by humans so they need sedating before they can be relocated and that is where most of the fun starts.
The chapters devoted to animals closer to home had me in stitches from Pollyanne, the donkey with a stage role at the Royal Opera House, to the Sugar Gliders that had been brought in to be castrated by having their pom-poms removed. I was crying with laughter.
The chapters devoted to animals closer to home had me in stitches from Pollyanne, the donkey with a stage role at the Royal Opera House, to the Sugar Gliders that had been brought in to be castrated by having their pom-poms removed. I was crying with laughter.
December 2, 2018
Jonathan Cranston is a vet now based in the Cotswolds, who has travelled the world practicing his profession.
This is a well written book, consisting of chapters telling separate stories, some moving, some sad and some very funny, about different species of animals. There is an interesting fact page at the end of each chapter telling about the animal (I especially liked the group names - for example a group of wildebeest is called a confusion!) and it’s need for conservation. His love of animals and wildlife shine through the whole book giving it a lovely feel good factor for the reader. If I hadn’t been given this book to review, I doubt that I would have read it so I am pleased to say that I enjoyed it more than I expected and can genuinely recommend it to anyone.
This is a well written book, consisting of chapters telling separate stories, some moving, some sad and some very funny, about different species of animals. There is an interesting fact page at the end of each chapter telling about the animal (I especially liked the group names - for example a group of wildebeest is called a confusion!) and it’s need for conservation. His love of animals and wildlife shine through the whole book giving it a lovely feel good factor for the reader. If I hadn’t been given this book to review, I doubt that I would have read it so I am pleased to say that I enjoyed it more than I expected and can genuinely recommend it to anyone.
February 18, 2019
A charmingly presented memoir with tiny line-drawings of favourite animals, both domestic and wild. There are also some colour photos of the author on his various adventures as a conservationist in Africa and as a vet in the English countryside dealing with pets, livestock and zoo animals.
The book is arranged with a chapter for each of 20 selected species. The content is always a personal encounter which the writer has found particularly memorable; amusing or unexpected or exciting. Sometimes this editorial plan sabotages the writer's intention of surprising the reader with a mystery species but in general it works well. I used this book as an enjoyable bedtime read for 20 days so you can see it provides good value for money!
The book is arranged with a chapter for each of 20 selected species. The content is always a personal encounter which the writer has found particularly memorable; amusing or unexpected or exciting. Sometimes this editorial plan sabotages the writer's intention of surprising the reader with a mystery species but in general it works well. I used this book as an enjoyable bedtime read for 20 days so you can see it provides good value for money!
March 9, 2019
I really enjoyed 'The Travelling Vet' as a book which was informative, and witty. It was written in such a way that the anecdotes of each animal were relatable, whilst remaining amusing. I thoroughly enjoyed the range of animals written about - from cows to crocodiles! This both offered perspective, and a relief of a one sided account.
There was much emphasis on the role that humans play in the animal kingdom, where not everyone plays the role that they should. The images of exploitation of an animal's position were remarkably moving, and left real meaning on the reader.
This book was written with true sensitivity, and realism. It was unnecessary for the reader to be a so-called 'animal fan', as it was a charming read, with an intuitive touch to it.
There was much emphasis on the role that humans play in the animal kingdom, where not everyone plays the role that they should. The images of exploitation of an animal's position were remarkably moving, and left real meaning on the reader.
This book was written with true sensitivity, and realism. It was unnecessary for the reader to be a so-called 'animal fan', as it was a charming read, with an intuitive touch to it.
July 9, 2019
Despite the casual and humourous tone, which I really think helps readers relate on a personal level, it was really clear how passionate the author is about what he does. The stories that he shares are never lacking in enthusiasm and as someone who appreciates random trivia I enjoyed reading the fact file for each animal. His writing is also deep and meaningful in that we get an insight into his own feelings towards certain aspects of his vocation and what being a veterinary surgeon is really about. Even from the introduction, readers get a real sense for his determination and passion. I would recommend this for all, not just animal lovers or aspiring vets. Easy reading too, not too technical or drawn-out.
October 13, 2019
Interesting read
'The Travelling Vet' would not normally be the sort of book that would appeal to me, but this book called me for Jonathan's work with the giant pandas. I've been lucky enough to visit the Chengdu Research centre in China and it is as Jonathan says a dream come true to get that close to such a beautiful animal, would love to have been able to get closer to a six week old cub, lucky man.
This book is interesting, Jonathan's giving you the background behind his whole experience to where he travels to work with each animal. After giving you his experience/brief of working with each animal, each chapter then ends with fast facts on that particular animal, giving details on distribution, names, life span, habitat, diet ectectera... overall interesting read.
'The Travelling Vet' would not normally be the sort of book that would appeal to me, but this book called me for Jonathan's work with the giant pandas. I've been lucky enough to visit the Chengdu Research centre in China and it is as Jonathan says a dream come true to get that close to such a beautiful animal, would love to have been able to get closer to a six week old cub, lucky man.
This book is interesting, Jonathan's giving you the background behind his whole experience to where he travels to work with each animal. After giving you his experience/brief of working with each animal, each chapter then ends with fast facts on that particular animal, giving details on distribution, names, life span, habitat, diet ectectera... overall interesting read.
April 26, 2020
Having read this book I now want to become a vet and travel the world fixing animals! This book also makes you want to donate your life savings to all the animal organisations out there that do amazing work with the endangered species of this world.
A fab read and so informative. Jonathans' tales are really fun, and in some places hilarious - you'll know what I mean when you read the tale about the goat! He has a way with words and I really wish he had written more, however I'm sure it was a tough decision just choosing which stories to publish in the first place!
You can tell from his writing that he is passionate about all animals that make up the animal kingdom, and if he writes another book I will definitely give that one a go too.
A fab read and so informative. Jonathans' tales are really fun, and in some places hilarious - you'll know what I mean when you read the tale about the goat! He has a way with words and I really wish he had written more, however I'm sure it was a tough decision just choosing which stories to publish in the first place!
You can tell from his writing that he is passionate about all animals that make up the animal kingdom, and if he writes another book I will definitely give that one a go too.
Read
October 20, 2023This book was definitely interesting, and I’ll probably try to read more books about animals in the future.
I liked the format of this book – first, there would be a story about the animal, then at the end of the chapter there would be some information about the animal. I especially liked the interesting facts.
I think the chapter that I’m probably going to remember for a long time is the one about the rhinoceros – it was written really well, which made it even worse.
The most entertaining or interesting chapters were armadillo, goat, Holstein cow and ferret.
I liked the format of this book – first, there would be a story about the animal, then at the end of the chapter there would be some information about the animal. I especially liked the interesting facts.
I think the chapter that I’m probably going to remember for a long time is the one about the rhinoceros – it was written really well, which made it even worse.
The most entertaining or interesting chapters were armadillo, goat, Holstein cow and ferret.
August 1, 2019
Picked up completely at random from the returns pile at the local library because it looked interesting - who's not going to like the tales of an adventurous vet. The stories were as good as promised, providing light entertainment and self-depreciating humour. It took a while for me to work this out, but the most amusing aspect is that he's actually the vet who comes to our farm! I guess we know who to go to if the alpacas get poorly...
*ETA: amazing photo of CPR on a giraffe!!*
*ETA: amazing photo of CPR on a giraffe!!*
January 7, 2020
Reading outside of my comfort zone.
It's not that I don't like animals but wildlife programmes and books just don't interest me particularly. As this years first book club pick and as I know Jonathan and his family I didn't think I could just avoid reading it and if I'm honest I did quite enjoy it.
Jon is an engaging writer and his stories are interesting and in the case of the stoned ferret laugh out load funny. Even if your not a fan of vet books this is worth a read.
It's not that I don't like animals but wildlife programmes and books just don't interest me particularly. As this years first book club pick and as I know Jonathan and his family I didn't think I could just avoid reading it and if I'm honest I did quite enjoy it.
Jon is an engaging writer and his stories are interesting and in the case of the stoned ferret laugh out load funny. Even if your not a fan of vet books this is worth a read.
August 25, 2023
An interesting book about a British vet's experiences both in his home practice and abroad. As he warns in the introduction, each chapter focuses on a species but the chapters themselves are in no particular order. Each chapter ends with a short fact sheet on the species which includes conservation issue and a link to a group that is attempting to help. Overall an interesting read that will hopefully encourage more people to help protect our natural world.
December 21, 2024
First hand accounts of a vet surgeon whom everybody thinks he has the knowledge of the CREATOR of some of the unique animals he encounter. A guy brings in an Armadillo to be microchipped... Armadillo goes into defensive mode when it saw the vet and morphed into a metal armoured ball... hillarious and mind-blowing experiences in every chapter.
June 27, 2020
Exceptional book
This is one of the best vet books I've read, each chapter covers a different species and gives a short resume at the end of each chapter. His dedication shines through the book. I'd love him to care for my cats!
This is one of the best vet books I've read, each chapter covers a different species and gives a short resume at the end of each chapter. His dedication shines through the book. I'd love him to care for my cats!
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