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Poppy The Street Dog: How an extraordinary dog helped bring hope to the homeless
A heartwarming true animal story, for fans of A Dog's Purpose, A Street Cat Named Bob and Marley & Me.
Michelle Clark has loved animals all her life, filling her home with a menagerie of stray cats and abandoned dogs. But when her outreach work with London's homeless community leads to a chance meeting with a desperate man, and a quest to find a missing Staffie named Poppy, she has no idea that her life will be transformed forever.
Poppy is unlike any other dog that Michelle has ever met, with her unwavering loyalty, gentle nature and wise, kind eyes. Soon, Poppy finds her way not just into Michelle's heart, but into her home too.
Inspired Poppy's extraordinary love and devotion, Michelle finds herself at the start of a journey to bring hope and help to the hundreds of other precious dogs who call the city streets their home.
An inspiring, heartwarming true story about the incredible bond that exists between humans and animals, and how, in rescuing them, we can also rescue ourselves.
Michelle Clark has loved animals all her life, filling her home with a menagerie of stray cats and abandoned dogs. But when her outreach work with London's homeless community leads to a chance meeting with a desperate man, and a quest to find a missing Staffie named Poppy, she has no idea that her life will be transformed forever.
Poppy is unlike any other dog that Michelle has ever met, with her unwavering loyalty, gentle nature and wise, kind eyes. Soon, Poppy finds her way not just into Michelle's heart, but into her home too.
Inspired Poppy's extraordinary love and devotion, Michelle finds herself at the start of a journey to bring hope and help to the hundreds of other precious dogs who call the city streets their home.
An inspiring, heartwarming true story about the incredible bond that exists between humans and animals, and how, in rescuing them, we can also rescue ourselves.
- GenresDogs
160 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2020
12 people are currently reading
96 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
November 7, 2020
My word this book was brilliant so hooked to and changed your minds on street digs and made you think. Shows signs of a very strong lady who really shows determination and strength and such a heartwarming read and makes you realise how strong the bond is between animals and humans.
Michelle has always loved animals and she does outreach work with the homeless community and when she meets one man who had been taken to hospital and his dog was lost so she says she will find his dog and it’s poppy and she doesn’t realise how it will change her life. Poppy ends up coming to live with her when the owner says she will be better off with Michelle so she keeps her and she works her way into her heart and home and when she falls ill she is worried. But will poppy have taught a number of things along the way as well and she starts helping so many others and the street dogs.
Michelle has always loved animals and she does outreach work with the homeless community and when she meets one man who had been taken to hospital and his dog was lost so she says she will find his dog and it’s poppy and she doesn’t realise how it will change her life. Poppy ends up coming to live with her when the owner says she will be better off with Michelle so she keeps her and she works her way into her heart and home and when she falls ill she is worried. But will poppy have taught a number of things along the way as well and she starts helping so many others and the street dogs.
May 20, 2023
This was a very interesting story of the authors love for animals and how
She started her outreach work with London's homeless community, mainly with the homeless who had dog companions and how this affected the care they could get from the community.
She showed to us the special bond these people and their pets had for each other, and how the owners would do everything in there power to look after their animals.
She met many wonderful people on the street, who were happy to just have someone to talk to, and she ended up bringing them items which would help them survive in the colder months, when they could not go to a shelter because of their pets.
She was on call for many of them, if something should happen to their pets, getting free vet care, educating them about the proper food for their animals and much more.
She did end up with the dog on the cover, but we met many wonderful pets on her journey, and I guess since Poppy was a street dog, and really accepted her, she felt that certain connection to her.
I hope she is still out there on the streets helping these individuals, as she did a lot for them with endless volunteers.
She started her outreach work with London's homeless community, mainly with the homeless who had dog companions and how this affected the care they could get from the community.
She showed to us the special bond these people and their pets had for each other, and how the owners would do everything in there power to look after their animals.
She met many wonderful people on the street, who were happy to just have someone to talk to, and she ended up bringing them items which would help them survive in the colder months, when they could not go to a shelter because of their pets.
She was on call for many of them, if something should happen to their pets, getting free vet care, educating them about the proper food for their animals and much more.
She did end up with the dog on the cover, but we met many wonderful pets on her journey, and I guess since Poppy was a street dog, and really accepted her, she felt that certain connection to her.
I hope she is still out there on the streets helping these individuals, as she did a lot for them with endless volunteers.
December 19, 2020
Very sad buy an lovely story.
April 19, 2021
Great work Michelle - well done for all your hard work and thank you for being such a good person!
May 16, 2021
I thought this was an ok read. However, I felt it was slightly misleading, in as much as the title and the front cover is concerned. Why is this, I hear you say? well, the book is more of a biography (or partial biography) about the author (which, in itself, is fine) but its really not so much about the titular dog itself (I wouldn't classify it as a book purely about animals, for one thing), there's relatively little detail about the dog itself, who is only mentioned almost half way through the book itself(!). In fact, the first 25 pages or so of the book focuses on Michelle's love of cats. For anyone like me who prefers dogs to cats and isn't as enamored as other people are by our 'feline friends', this may prove to be relatively uninteresting - even slightly cringe-y perhaps.
However, I did ultimately enjoy reading it, to discover what happened with her plans, her clear ambition and determination to help the homeless with their dogs. Most of the book is about the people she meets, with the animals being described and talked about almost in passing. The individual stories aren't uninteresting but I didn't feel this is quite what, I suppose, I'd expected to read, given the title. Its also a bit depressing, frankly and I know - first world problem! - shock, horror, reading the plight of homeless people with mental health problems and addiction issues is sobering read. Well, yes, of course, it should be if you care about other people and its good to raise the issues but I'd assumed it would be more of an uplifting read. Don't get me wrong, the author has achieved a lot and had some good times, described in the book but it's not all good.
Then there's the fact that terms such as 'fur baby' and 'rainbow bridge' are used more than once I think. I realise this may seem unfair of me to both complain about how depressing aspects of the book are and to also complain about how such cheesy and cringe-y terms were used. It felt a bit jarring. It's a fairly quick read and not uninteresting but not an ideal read either. I'm certainly pleased to hear the organisation came into being and so on. This may be more of a book for younger readers, due to the terms used as I mentioned earlier but if it sounds of interest, I suppose I'd cautiously recommend it, just don't expect too much of it, if that makes sense?.
However, I did ultimately enjoy reading it, to discover what happened with her plans, her clear ambition and determination to help the homeless with their dogs. Most of the book is about the people she meets, with the animals being described and talked about almost in passing. The individual stories aren't uninteresting but I didn't feel this is quite what, I suppose, I'd expected to read, given the title. Its also a bit depressing, frankly and I know - first world problem! - shock, horror, reading the plight of homeless people with mental health problems and addiction issues is sobering read. Well, yes, of course, it should be if you care about other people and its good to raise the issues but I'd assumed it would be more of an uplifting read. Don't get me wrong, the author has achieved a lot and had some good times, described in the book but it's not all good.
Then there's the fact that terms such as 'fur baby' and 'rainbow bridge' are used more than once I think. I realise this may seem unfair of me to both complain about how depressing aspects of the book are and to also complain about how such cheesy and cringe-y terms were used. It felt a bit jarring. It's a fairly quick read and not uninteresting but not an ideal read either. I'm certainly pleased to hear the organisation came into being and so on. This may be more of a book for younger readers, due to the terms used as I mentioned earlier but if it sounds of interest, I suppose I'd cautiously recommend it, just don't expect too much of it, if that makes sense?.
June 25, 2021
😽😻📚Claire Bear & Mel Mel's Book Reviews 📚😻😽 'Poppy the Street Dog' by Michelle Clark
Genre: Animal Rights & True Story
About the Book: This is a true story about how Michelle has dedicated her life to Dogs living on the streets. In addition, when she became an outreach worker for the homeless; she met a wonderful dog called Poppy. Poppy inspired Michelle to create the ongoing project 'Cause 4 Paws'.
My Review: Michelle is such an inspiration! The way she has dedicated her life to helping the homeless and supporting dogs in need is remarkable. I have no idea how she has managed to dedicate that much time of her life and how she was able to afford everything that was involved. Yet, I can only wish I could make that sort of positive difference in my lifetime. Michelle clearly shows how the bereavement of a furbaby can be just as painful as of a human.
The book is clear, a good balance of show and tell and no over description.
I praise the author for showing awareness of how wonderful the breed Staffordshire Bull Terriers is and how they are unfairly stigmatized. Also, I praise the author for showing awareness of the complexity of homelessness and how life can change in an instant.
This story took me on a huge emotional rollercoaster, it evoked many emotions and I was brought to tears at least once. The ending was beautiful and I would love to hear more from this author in the future.
Triggers - Bereavement, homelessness, Alcholism, illegal Drugs and prostitution.
If you know anyone (or are someone) who has any prejudices towards people who are homeless or how bereavement of furbabies can be just as heartbreaking as of a human - I urge you to read this book.
Disclaimer: My Book Reviews are based on my own opinions and experiences only.
If you would like to see more of my Book Reviews please visit - www.goodreads.com/clairebearmelmel
Or clairebearmelmel on Instagram
Genre: Animal Rights & True Story
About the Book: This is a true story about how Michelle has dedicated her life to Dogs living on the streets. In addition, when she became an outreach worker for the homeless; she met a wonderful dog called Poppy. Poppy inspired Michelle to create the ongoing project 'Cause 4 Paws'.
My Review: Michelle is such an inspiration! The way she has dedicated her life to helping the homeless and supporting dogs in need is remarkable. I have no idea how she has managed to dedicate that much time of her life and how she was able to afford everything that was involved. Yet, I can only wish I could make that sort of positive difference in my lifetime. Michelle clearly shows how the bereavement of a furbaby can be just as painful as of a human.
The book is clear, a good balance of show and tell and no over description.
I praise the author for showing awareness of how wonderful the breed Staffordshire Bull Terriers is and how they are unfairly stigmatized. Also, I praise the author for showing awareness of the complexity of homelessness and how life can change in an instant.
This story took me on a huge emotional rollercoaster, it evoked many emotions and I was brought to tears at least once. The ending was beautiful and I would love to hear more from this author in the future.
Triggers - Bereavement, homelessness, Alcholism, illegal Drugs and prostitution.
If you know anyone (or are someone) who has any prejudices towards people who are homeless or how bereavement of furbabies can be just as heartbreaking as of a human - I urge you to read this book.
Disclaimer: My Book Reviews are based on my own opinions and experiences only.
If you would like to see more of my Book Reviews please visit - www.goodreads.com/clairebearmelmel
Or clairebearmelmel on Instagram
October 12, 2024
As people who know me know and as i may have said in past reviews I am not a fan of biagraphical books, however now and then I find something that interests me and that makes me make an acception to the rule.
Dogs and animals are a passion of mine so this story caught my interest as dogs that help people interest me due to having been lucky to own two guide dogs.
Michelle's and Poppies story was captivating from the start, this was not just the story of Michelle and Poppy however I gained a lot of insites into how dog owners who live on the street have such a special bond with there dogs and the other way round. It reminds me of the bond a grate partnership between an owner and there guide dog can have. I learned a lot about homeless people I did not know such as the difference between genuaine rough sleepers and people who might be faking. The importance of not judging someone as we don't know the cercomstances that brought them into that kind of life.
This was a very eye opening and enspiring book and it is wonderful to read about how Poppy helped Michelle start up this wonderful charity. If more people could take a leaf out of her book and help others the world would be a far better place both for people and animals.
Dogs and animals are a passion of mine so this story caught my interest as dogs that help people interest me due to having been lucky to own two guide dogs.
Michelle's and Poppies story was captivating from the start, this was not just the story of Michelle and Poppy however I gained a lot of insites into how dog owners who live on the street have such a special bond with there dogs and the other way round. It reminds me of the bond a grate partnership between an owner and there guide dog can have. I learned a lot about homeless people I did not know such as the difference between genuaine rough sleepers and people who might be faking. The importance of not judging someone as we don't know the cercomstances that brought them into that kind of life.
This was a very eye opening and enspiring book and it is wonderful to read about how Poppy helped Michelle start up this wonderful charity. If more people could take a leaf out of her book and help others the world would be a far better place both for people and animals.
December 4, 2022
Oh my god I love books with dog main characters so muuuuch😭😭😭 DOTS, (dogs on the street) Is one of my favorite organizations, and I'm so happy Michelle Clark, the founder, has decided to tell her story! And this was SUCH a winner because of 3 main reasons: 1: It combined worldwide issues (homelessness) with dogs, and a staffie none the less! 2: The main character was someone I could sympathize with. 3: It is written in a way that's easy to understand, and allows you to get into characters heads to experience their innermost thoughts and feelings. It was so emotional and heartbreaking, yet I loved it so much! This was me at the end: My sister: Why are you crying!? Me: I'm at the end of my book! It's so beautiful! My sister: Ha Ha! Your such a hopeless romantic. The main characters love interest just died, right? Me: No, there's no romance! Even better, dogs! Come read with me! (20 minutes later) Me and my sister: Both holding each other crying like babies (In the very best way!) This is one of my all-time favorite dog books! Everyone should read it! (And my sis usually doesn't cry at books, so that's really saying something!)
December 8, 2020
Having supported DOTS (Dogs on the Streets) with a share of the proceeds from my first book I am delighted that Michelle Clark, the founder of DOTS, has now published her own story in a beautiful tribute to Poppy, the much-loved dog who walked into her home and heart in a way that felt as if it was meant to be. The book follows Michelle in the early days of her outreach work with the homeless on London’s streets. There are heart-warming moments as well as heart-breaking ones and what kind of help is needed for whom can at times appear overwhelming. When she meets Poppy, this extraordinary dog reminds her to focus on all the things she can do to help the dogs and their devoted owners who call the streets their home. Poppy the Street Dog is a heart-warming and inspiring read that shows what an enormous difference one kind-hearted woman and her canine guide can make.
October 14, 2020
It’s been a long time since anything melted my cold, dead heart like this book did. From the first few pages I was crying on the bus. By half way through I was crying at work. And by the evening I was crying on my sofa.
Michelle is a very special person with a heart of gold. Her devotion to animals is unbelievable and her work with the homeless can make anyone look at them in a different, humanised way. Her accounts of these men shows the dignity they have and the adoration they give to their dogs.
Every penny from this books goes back into Dogs On The Street so that Michele and her team can carry on working for the rights of homeless and their dogs. PLEASE BUY A COPY so she can carry on her fantastic and life-saving work
Michelle is a very special person with a heart of gold. Her devotion to animals is unbelievable and her work with the homeless can make anyone look at them in a different, humanised way. Her accounts of these men shows the dignity they have and the adoration they give to their dogs.
Every penny from this books goes back into Dogs On The Street so that Michele and her team can carry on working for the rights of homeless and their dogs. PLEASE BUY A COPY so she can carry on her fantastic and life-saving work
January 31, 2021
Beautifully written!
Having previously volunteered for a homeless charity I can completely relate to Michelle’s story. The voyage of discovery you make over time and the challenges that are faced.
The insight into the world of rough sleepers and their loyal canine companions is so accurate . Michelle is an inspiration as are her team of volunteers.
Reading Poppy’s story, often through watery eyes, this book makes me want to cherish every single day I have with my Lola, an adorable CKCS who I love unconditionally. The book touched me on so many levels.
Thank you for such a wonderful read.
Having previously volunteered for a homeless charity I can completely relate to Michelle’s story. The voyage of discovery you make over time and the challenges that are faced.
The insight into the world of rough sleepers and their loyal canine companions is so accurate . Michelle is an inspiration as are her team of volunteers.
Reading Poppy’s story, often through watery eyes, this book makes me want to cherish every single day I have with my Lola, an adorable CKCS who I love unconditionally. The book touched me on so many levels.
Thank you for such a wonderful read.
February 11, 2024
I’ve supported this wonderful charity for a while but reading this book has left me feeling very emotional and in awe of the work Michelle has done. Dogs On The Streets charity was set up in the memory of her beautiful Poppy who was a former street dog. The love and support Michelle has for street dogs and their people shows no bounds. Beautifully written, it left me sobbing but with a very full heart 🧡🐾
October 6, 2021
Yes, this wasn't what I expected. But that did not deter from the book. It was refreshing to see someone truly compassionate toward homelessness. Someone, motivated by a wonderful dog and direct experience, working to do everything she can to help the homeless by keeping them and their most beloved companions, their ever faithful canines, safe and healthy.
February 6, 2021
Amazingly uplifting and just such a lovely story. If you're an animal lover then this book is for you.
April 6, 2021
Great book and a quick read but quite sad at times- definitely a tear jerker!
November 3, 2021
Amazing!!
A truly amazing, and inspirational life story , that many dog parents, especially Staffie owners, will relate to , and enjoy 😍
A truly amazing, and inspirational life story , that many dog parents, especially Staffie owners, will relate to , and enjoy 😍
March 21, 2023
I know it's a personal thing, but when people refer to their pets as their furbabies it makes me cringe.
September 13, 2023
Equally heartbreaking and heartwarming
April 3, 2024
It is a very good book with lots of ways to see a different side of things like homeless people and pets
September 18, 2024
About Dogs
I like stories about dogs. This story is very different. It has some nice ideas in it. I would recommend it to dog lovers.
I like stories about dogs. This story is very different. It has some nice ideas in it. I would recommend it to dog lovers.
July 31, 2025
such an emotional heart felt book! what an inspiring woman and Poppy
August 9, 2025
4.5 stars
This book was not at all what I expected, very interesting, I really enjoyed it
This book was not at all what I expected, very interesting, I really enjoyed it
September 25, 2020
I've been following DOTS (Dogs on the Street) for a number of years and this book tells how one self-confessed crazy cat lady had the compassion to help the homeless people of London. With the entrance into her life of a street dog called Poppy, she realised that the street dogs (and cats) were a life-line to their homeless person, not only did they offer their unconditional love and support but these animals gave their humans a reason to live. So began the assistance programme that we now know as DOTS. A lovely book, well written, that will make you both smile and tear up (if not actually shed those tears). I couldn't put this down and read in one sitting.
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