What It Takes to Save a Life: A Veterinarian's Quest for Healing and Hope

by Kwane Stewart

Mountains Beyond Mountains  meets  Tattoos On the Heart  in this unforgettable, powerful, and stunningly-told memoir of a struggling veterinarian saving animals and humans on the streets of California - and how he discovered what bonds all living creatures. Dr. Kwane Stewart was questioning his career as a veterinarian when he saw a homeless man with a flea-infested dog outside of a convenience store. In a moment of spontaneous generosity, he offered to examine the dog and treat him for free. It was the first step in a now nine-year journey that has taken Dr. Kwane from Skid Row to San Francisco and beyond to care for pets and their humans who are living on the streets. In What It Takes to Save a Life, Dr. Kwane shows how our four-legged, feathered, scaled, and swimming family members—these dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, and other animals that live side by side with us—provide more than companionship. They offer essential love, hope, and a sense of security. Written with striking honesty and rich detail, Dr. Kwane looks back on his childhood, how he discovered his appreciation for animals and his calling, and offers a frank assessment of the state of veterinary medicine today, where compassion fatigue, burnout, and suicide are facts of life. Full of warm and inspiring stories of human-animal relationships, this powerful and eye-opening book is a reminder that we are all members of a wider family. It is also a clarion call for each of us to help those in need—especially our most vulnerable brothers and sisters—and the animals who are their families. Wise and warm, Dr. Stewart's story is a reminder that one life can make an immeasurable difference.

Genres: Animals, Nonfiction, Memoir, Dogs, Audiobook, Biography, Biography Memoir

224 pages, Hardcover

Published May 16, 2023

Reviews

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s so easy to see a homeless person on the streets with a pet and make harsh judgments. The stories in this book will help me look at those situations with a lot more compassion. This is the gritty, urban version of All Creatures Great and Small.

[Chaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

"One of the school's main mantras was 'watch one, do one, teach one,' but while that might work for placing a catheter, you can't practice the heartache of losing animals."
Ugh this quote just stuck with me and I couldn't stop thinking about it. Honestly that's how this whole book was. I didn't want to put it down. This book just hits at home working in this field. 😭😭💙

[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book and I love Dr.. Stewart.
His love for dogs made a wonderful very caring Vet!
I would have loved to have him for my own Vet for my dogs!
This is a great story!
You don't want to miss out on this one!

Thank you so much, NetGalley, the Publisher, and Dr. Stewart, for giving me the chance to read and review this great story!

[Emilee Day · Rating 5 out of 5]

If u haven’t heard of Project Street Vet u have now GO LOOK IT UP

[Kate Bradley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excuse me while I ugly cry…

[Jackie Schoenherr · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a veterinarian, this book was so good yet so difficult to read. Dr. Kwane very directly and gently brings up major issues in vet med and several of the large contributors to veterinarian burnout and harm, especially in shelter medicine, which is difficult to read. However, it's good to see that we aren't alone. Any person that loves or interacts with animals in any capacity should read this book.

[Alejandra Cromer]

Loved this book. Anyone who is a pet owner knows how special that bond can be. The work Dr. Kwane does to ensure those already living in a difficult situation are able to keep their companions healthy is so important.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book. Proof that many angels walk this earth. If you love stories about humanity and animals, read it.

[Jackie Sunday · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has a lot of “heart” for animals.

Dr. Kwane shares a lot of personal experience from his life: his thoughts of suicide, panic attacks, marriage problems, financial difficulties and what he had to do to help raise his son. Yet, besides his son, his big love has always been with the dogs, cats and other animals that he has helped heal over 26 years as a veterinarian.

It brought back memories that I had during my short employment with a humane society where people brought in all kinds of dogs and cats. It was emotionally difficult to see the sweet faces and then realize that it was impossible to find homes for all of the animals.

It’s certainly a challenging job for Dr. Kwane when faced with too many dogs and cats and then not enough funds or kennels for the animals. He discussed candidly about what it was like to have a conversation when it would be time to let go which was never easy.

Dr. Kwane is a great storyteller. He talked about how much of an impact a pet has made with different homeless people. Many times, it’s the only thing that gives them a reason to live. And Dr. Kwane has always been there to help if he could.

It’s a book from a doctor with all the qualities it takes: compassion, patience, problem solving and one that communicates well. If you are a pet lover, this may one that you'll want to read.

[Laura Moreno · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Only two years into his job as lead veterinarian at the Stanislaus County animal shelter, Dr. Kwane Stewart was on the verge of a breakdown. More animals were dropped off than he could care for, and, because the shelter never turned an animal away, it was the last stop for every unwanted pet in Northern California. One day, on the edge of despair, Stewart offered his veterinary services pro bono to a man outside a convenience store whom he had seen day after day; his dog was covered in bumps and having a serious allergy to fleas. With this one act of spontaneous generosity, Stewart confronted the truth: 'There was a tiny life before me, and, no, I couldn't save them all, but maybe I could save this one.' Armed with this new perspective, Stewart resolved to save his own life, too."
I read this book in record time. The need to continue to discover Dr. Kwane's various encounters with his clients was voracious. There are two stories woven into this book, the author's life story as well as that of his clients. There is always a reason to contrast and compare his own life to that of his often homeless clients. It is easy to drive by a homeless person and forget about it within seconds. This book encourages the reader to take a beat and consider not just that "there but for the grace of God, there go I," but to actually think about what horrible circumstances caused them to be in their situation. The profound joy of having a pet is easy to understand. Dr. Kwame explains how instrumental these pets are in giving their owner the desire to get up and continue day after day. In addition, these pets are often their only family who routinely stabilize their environment and give unconditional love. I was often teary-eyed and just as often smiling in the triumph of the animal/human connection. Dr. Kwame is unabashedly honest about his own trials and tribulations that humanize him in a way that few authors are brave enough to do. I volunteer at a low cost small animal vaccination clinic in South Texas and we have a similar program focusing on the homeless in our city. The gratitude and happiness expressed by this particular group of people is far and away genuine. I was inspired by Dr. Kwame's YouTube videos and that is how our program evolved. I highly recommend everyone to take a weekend to curl up with a cup of coffee or any other beverage and take a very memorable peek into the life and adventures of Dr. Kwame Stewart. You will not be disappointed.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

There may be veterinarians who are not wonderful human beings, but I have yet to meet one of those myself. I say this after a long lifetime living with animals of various kinds from horses to dogs, cats, parrots, and fish. Unfailingly, my many vets have been patient, resourceful, and dedicated to any creature I brought to them. They also treated me and other humans with empathy and respect. Perhaps I have been uncommonly fortunate, but I sense that the kind of person who devotes their professional resources and time to the care of animals is more than a cut above the rest of us. Dr. Kwane Stewart shows these qualities in his sensitive memoir. It is a tribute to his profession and the vital role that companion animals so often play out, especially in the lives of the most vulnerable humans.

I learned some important things from this short audiobook. A lot is packed into 6 hours or 224 pages. Dr. Stewart is transparent in his descriptions of many animal shelters. Severe lack of vital resources too often result in overwhelming, demoralizing problems for the animals and those who care for them. It is sad, taking a heavy toll on those who attempt to alleviate the loneliness, suffering, and confusion of lost and discarded pets. Rescue work can devour a person unless they are able to accept the limitations inherent in the system, improve as much as they can, and find sufficient reward from what it is possible to achieve...the fortunate animals that are saved, given better lives.

For years I have felt pity for the pets seen living on our streets with homeless people. However, Dr. Stewart interprets their lives through a different lens, one which is perhaps more accurate. The greatest gift to a companion animal is close proximity to its person and the quality of attention it receives. The homeless live intimately with their creatures, and the bond between them is powerful and life affirming. This contrasts with the long hours alone that many more "pampered" pets endure while their family is away due to work, school, and other obligations. I won't forget this when I see street people with their pets or when I hear a desperately dog distress barking alone for hours in a lush suburban backyard.

This book surprised me with its wisdom, honesty, and the vulnerability expressed by the humble but heroic author. Perhaps it shouldn't have though. Vets are, after all, very, very special people, at least all of the ones I have known.

[Nic San · Rating 5 out of 5]

What It Takes to Save a Life: A Veterinarian's Quest for Healing and Hope by Dr. Kwane Stewart is a deeply moving memoir and call to compassion from a veterinarian who found his true purpose beyond the clinic walls. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Stewart recounts how a chance encounter with a homeless man and his flea-ridden dog sparked an urgent mission to provide veterinary care to the pets of people experiencing homelessness in California. What began as spontaneous acts of kindness grew into Project Street Vet, a nonprofit bringing free medical services to underserved animals and their caretakers on the streets.

Stewart’s narrative offers honest insight into the challenges facing the veterinary profession—including compassion fatigue and burnout—while highlighting the remarkable bonds between humans and their animal companions. More than pets, these animals provide much-needed love, security, and hope to owners enduring profound hardship. Through heartwarming and often heartbreaking stories, the book reveals how saving an animal can also mean saving a life—restoring dignity and connection for those society too often overlooks.

Written with warmth, humility, and unflinching honesty, What It Takes to Save a Life is both an inspiring personal journey and a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to care for the vulnerable. It transcends a simple veterinary memoir to become a call to see the profound healing possible when compassion extends across species and social boundaries alike.

For readers interested in animal welfare, social justice, or inspiring true stories of kindness in difficult circumstances, Dr. Stewart’s book offers hope, healing, and a challenge to embrace the role each of us can play in making the world a kinder place. This book also shines light on an often invisible population struggling to care for their beloved animals, encouraging broader compassion and support through the unforgettable lens of shared love and survival on the streets.

[Sandy Nawrot · Rating 4 out of 5]

Normally when I see a dog head on the cover of a book, I run. My fragile heart cannot handle stories of dying animals, and that is usually the game the authors play to manipulate our emotions. But I was told that this dog-head book was a feel good kinda thing, so I took a chance.

Dr. Kwane Stewart is currently a veterinarian with over twenty years of experience, stars in a TV show called "Street Vet" and has spearheaded a movement to help the pets of those who are homeless. This memoir reveals his journey...as a mixed race kid, bringing home stray animals, struggling through vet school, and struggling with mental health. It was at his lowest point, when he was thinking about ending his life, that he saw a homeless man with a sick dog and his life turned a corner. Recognizing that to a homeless person, an animal is the center of their universe and the only thing keeping them alive. So he began treating street pets in his spare time, sometimes with success and sometimes not. But it was recognizing the unconditional love, hope and security that a pet brings to these folks that in turn saved Dr. Kwane from his demons.

As someone who is deeply emotional about animals, this story touched my soul. It was interesting to hear that pets of the homeless are some of the most well-behaved animals Dr. Kwane has ever seen.
It definitely broadened my perspective on the lives of these babies. You should know that the author does talk about his training in euthanizing pets, and this was not easy to hear. Frankly it made me feel sick. The days I've said goodbye to my babies were some of the worst in my life, so just a heads up on that. Overall, though, this was a feel-good story.

I assumed the audiobook would be narrated by the author, especially since he has the experience of TV. However, it was narrated by Ron Butler, someone I have no experience with. He did a great job with the material, and was so natural that he could have been the author.

[Cheryl Goot · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Must-Read That Restores Your Faith in Humanity!

What It Takes to Save a Life by Dr. Kwane Stewart is one of the most moving and inspiring books I’ve read—it only took me a day to finish because I simply couldn’t put it down! I first heard about Dr. Kwane through the Kelly Clarkson Show, and I’m so grateful I finally got the chance to read his story.

This book beautifully highlights the power of compassion. Dr. Kwane not only treats animals—dogs, cats, birds—but he also genuinely connects with the people experiencing homelessness who care for them! He listens to their stories, learns how they got to where they are, and shows them dignity and respect! Through his journey, it becomes clear just how vital pets are to their owners—especially in tough times. These animals are lifelines, companions, and sources of hope!

The book also dives into Dr. Kwane’s personal journey—his experiences with bullying as a child, the challenges of vet school, and the emotional toll of his early career, especially the heartbreaking decisions he had to make while working at a government-run shelter. These moments were difficult to read but so important—they opened my eyes to the burnout, stress, and mental health struggles veterinarians often face.

What touched me most was seeing how Dr. Kwane eventually found his true purpose through Project Street Vet! It’s heartwarming to see someone rediscover their passion and turn it into something that brings so much good into the world!

This book is powerful, emotional, and uplifting! I highly recommend it to anyone who loves animals, believes in kindness, or just wants to read a story that leaves you feeling hopeful!

[Fred Fontz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would give "What It Takes to Save a Life" by Kwane Stewart a solid 4 stars. This book offers a deeply thoughtful exploration of the life and experiences of a veterinarian, providing profound insights into the emotional and challenging aspects of the profession.

Stewart's narrative is incredibly moving, with moments that tug at the heartstrings and offer a raw glimpse into the complexities of his work. He bravely shares experiences that many may overlook, such as the difficult decisions surrounding euthanasia and the emotional toll of dealing with multiple animal deaths in a short period. The idea that suicide is an issue in the veterinary world is something I’ve never considered but, somehow, makes sense.

Throughout the book, Stewart emerges as a compassionate and empathetic individual, deeply committed to the well-being of both pets and the homeless community. His genuine care for animals shines through his words, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

One of the book's strengths lies in Stewart's ability to convey the profound value and connection that pets bring to our lives. Through his stories, he highlights the unique bond between humans and animals, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the role pets play in our lives.

Overall, "What It Takes to Save a Life" is a touching and thought-provoking read that offers invaluable insights into the world of veterinary medicine and the profound impact of caring for animals.

[David Watson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice autobiography that does what it sets out to do - and is well-edited and brief, which enabled me to finish it in almost a single sitting. Being biracial (black father, white mother) in the US in the second half of the 20th century provided some challenges in Stewart's early years but he was single-mindedly focused on becoming a veterinary surgeon, and had achieved that goal by his mid-20s.
Managing animal shelters was a significant part of his career, though he worked in urban private practice too (farm practice didn't appeal to him, though he had to do some papers on it at vet school - and there's an amusing tale about him messing up a cow's pregnancy examination).
His work at the shelters is clearly the highlight of his time as a veterinatian and the most difficult task of that role - euthanising unwanted pets who can't be rehomed - clearly weighed on him.
Stewart's work with homeless humans who have companion animals is another big part of this book and one which took him to LA's Skid Row frequently.
His personal life features too - he is divorced with one son. A desire to reduce the commute to see his son saw him wind up in small California seaside town. His interactions with an elderly dog-owner there are a captivating and sad part of this book.
Overall I enjoyed What It Takes To Save a Life, despite not being much of a fan of biographies and autobiographies.

[Sarah Ewald · Rating 3 out of 5]

When we first meet Kwane Stewart, he is seen with his vet tech helping to examine a dog that belongs to a homeless man. One of his attributes is his ability to gain the confidence of people who have nothing., while helping them with their pets, who are often their only 'family.' He finds that this is something he can do as a vet.

We then see him as a the vet at a local shelter, having a panic attack. The stresses of too many animals and too little space create ethical issues for him. He often puts off the inevitable euthanasia of some animals to give them 'more time' to be seen by adopters. But, often reality prevails. He finds himself on the beach, contemplating suicide.

His story is complex. Luck and determination got him into vet school, and he perseveres, and is determined to give back. But he is no saint. He got into trouble dabbling with substances, and his marriage tumbled when he succumbed to temptation to have an affair. Even so, after his divorce, he is determined to maintain a relationship with his son.

An inspiring read, that opens the door so we see what vet school is like, and the pressures that shelters face with too few resources. It is also an insight into the homeless communities.

[Sandra The Old Woman in a Van · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this memoir. I’ve been following Dr. Stewart’s Street Vet program as he was nominated for and won CNNs Hero award for 2023. The book had me alternately nodding my head and crying. He describes what it’s like for a modern veterinary clinician with astute accuracy - pointing out the disconnect between the dream and reality; the conflict between saving lives and ending lives. He describes the appalling suicide rates among veterinarians. This aspect of the memoir hits home because I’m also a veterinarian. Dr. Stewart’s work with street pets is a model all homeless service should emulate.

If you are interested in learning about homelessness and the housing crisis I suggest reading this book plus Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City and Rough Sleepers - the three books together helped me understand the precariousness of housing and the reality of living unhoused.

[Cindy Dyson Eitelman · Rating 4 out of 5]

So inspiring that when I reached the end that I immediately looked into volunteering at a pet-friendly homeless shelter. Or contributing to his visiting veterinarian charity. But I'll need to think over the logistics of all that.

This is a candid and very unstructured memoir of a veterinarian who practices among the homeless people of LA (or other places; I got confused) in his off-hours. He starts his career at an animal shelter with a very large kill-to-adopt ratio, but he is able to make a huge improvement before moving on to other jobs. Cool--I only wish there had been more detail about how he did it.

And the rest is an intriguing mix of stories from his younger life (a difficult one but with loving parents who got him through); current-time autobiographical details; and stories of the homeless people and animals he cares for. With a smattering of essay-type material on subjects such as why homeless people's animals are usually much better behaved and socialized than non-homeless people's. Mostly it's due to their being close to their owner--24x7. With much together time, dogs learn how to make us happy. And us them, too.

Lovely book--I only wish it had been twice as long.

[Holly · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this book in one sitting. It's a very honest story of one veterinarian who has encountered tough times and persevered. To say the least the author is a compassionate, caring, sensitive animal lover who only wants the best for every animal he encounters. It's mostly, however, the story of how he came to his Street Vet Project which provides free medical care to the pets of the unhoused population. Admittedly this is somewhat tough to read at parts and mostly extremely sad. Kwane's kindness is amazing and his willingness to face his own vulnerabilities along the way is so admirable that one cannot help but respect him. It's a very tender and heartwarming book, but be aware if you're an animal lover that it's difficult to read in parts. He also does do an incredible job of portraying demands and pressures that vets and vet techs function under and the grace with which they do their jobs.

[Sarah Semrad · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started and finished this in the same day. I couldn't put it down. I've been following @drkwane on social media for a while now, and I was so excited to get my hands on his book. He is a hero of mine. I sobbed and sobbed through so many pages of this book. His dedication to healing pets, especially those living with our unhoused neighbors, is admirable and a mission that I so badly wish I could help more with. I've always been an animal lover, but something changed when I got my rescue, Harley. She so quickly became my whole world. I was so grateful to the people that rescued here that I started volunteering at an animal shelter, too. I could see myself in so many of the people that Dr. Kwane talking about in this book because I too would do anything for my Harley, even if that meant putting her needs before my own. I just find his work and his book so beautiful and important and I think anyone with a heart for animals should read this book.

[Kay · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love true animal stories and especially ones by veterinarians. This book was ok however I expected something completely different. The story wasn’t so much about the animals. It mostly focused on the homeless, their plight and as an afterthought, their animals. I also was extremely disappointed that the author/vet consistently referred to over crowded shelters killing as “euthanasia”. Euthanasia is a gift we give to suffering animals to end their pain, not something to sugar coat the killing done. I do not blame the shelters as they can only do so much however it does every single animal killed an injustice to say they were euthanized. They were killed. Plain and simple. Sad. I do commend the author for his compassion, generosity and love for the homeless and their animals. It’s a win for the animals.

[Koren · Rating 5 out of 5]

When we think of kill shelters for animals we seldom think about the people that work there and what they go through when animals are euthanized. The author is a vet who ended up working at a shelter where he was responsible for decided which animals were to be euthanized. He is an amazing person who, instead of walking away or ignoring the problem, worked to make things better. He gives us insight into how animals make life better for their owners who are homeless and actually goes out into the community to learn more about them and help the animals whose owners do not have the money to pay. He is an amazing person who realizes that he is human and makes mistakes. Keep a whole box of tissues handy when you read this. It is hard to read, but oh so necessary to know what happens at these shelters and how we can help to make it better. Read this in one day. It was hard to put down.

[JSter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book will inspire you to be a better human being.

Dr. Kwane's story is equally heartbreaking and uplifting (I shed some tears!), and will give you a good look inside the life of a veterinarian, as well as the lives of people living on the streets with their animals. He also shares some of his personal struggles and how it is he relates so well to the people he works with on the streets.

I learned a lot about vets and animals and people and shelters and walked away with a fresh perspective and commitment to look for the little things I can do for the people I encounter in daily life.

*Audible version.

[Emilee Mae Struss · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m hesitant to read or watch anything that has to do with losing an animal, especially dogs. My 2 yr old rescue pittie is my world. But I trusted the author, Dr. Kwane, to share the experience in its whole existence— beauty, love, and pain. He did not disappoint. “What It Takes To Save A Life” is a tale of second chances and hope. I appreciated him including his personal life, along with his marriage dissolving. It was triggering to me due to my own experiences, but he was honest and shared his truth. While I don’t think I could ever be a Vet, GOD I am grateful they exist—- thank you for your work and writing this piece. It is inspiring and breathes life.

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a heartfelt book. I loved that the author was real with us and shared some hard things - the higher incidence of suicide for veterinarians, the racial discrimination he faced, the stories of the homeless he encountered, what it’s like to carry the weight of euthanizing adoptable animals at a shelter. I’m at a point in my life where I have a very low tolerance for sugarcoating the more unpleasant experiences in life. Give me the reality. I will say, this book did almost have me in tears a few times as I listened on my way to work. Be prepared to encounter some emotions with this piece of art.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am totally impressed with what Dr Kwane is doing! I think memoir's are incredibly hard to write when writing is not what your expertise. He opens up about the challenges in his life and how he overcame them. I learned something about spay and neuter- made me really think twice, especially since I lost one of babies to cancer.
Makes me think that I need to get back into the volunteering I once did and gave the excuse that "I'm to busy" Not busy enough to not give a little bit of my time. Thanks for making me have a little hope in this cruel world!

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this book in one sitting. So many compelling stories mixed in with Dr. Kwane’s reflections on his own life and path. Such a great quote to summarize and conclude the book with - “I think we’re all realizing we have something to give, something to offer, and that if we all do, maybe we can just change the world.” Bravo to The Street Vet and the incredibly important work you are doing for the people and for their animals.

[Rosanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr Kwane Stewart is a total gem. What he does for humans and their fur babies is amazing. He truly is an angel and helped restore some of my faith in humanity (it's been a rough 3.5 years). The book had me hooked from beginning to end, all the stories were interesting and I loved his writing style. I wish Dr Stewart all the best. Thank you for doing all you do. I will be telling everyone about this book.

[Noel نوال · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this memoir so much. Kwane's story was inspiring and deeply moving. As someone who works in the veterinary field and is pursuing a degree in veterinary medicine I really appreciated Kwane discussing the issues within veterinary medicine including the lack of diversity within the field in the United States. There was so much I appreciated about this book including his emphasis on the human and animal bond. This book is deeply moving and discusses many important issues.