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Starter Dog: My Path to Joy, Belonging and Loving This World
An irresistible tale of reluctant dog ownership full of heart, humor, and wisdom
Rona Maynard wants to love her life again. Stuck in the what-next doldrums after quitting a big job, she needs a new bridge to the world. So, well into their married life, she lets her husband talk her into their first dog, a rescue mutt named Casey. Rona frets about shedding, lost travel opportunities, and arguments about walking duty. She doubts she can love a dog. But when Casey romps through her door, Rona falls hard. Over time he gives her what no human could — a new way of seeing and a pathway to the heart of a moment. Her downtown neighborhood reveals its true face as she explores it with Casey, making new friends and discovering hidden beauty spots. She learns to have adventures on her own stomping ground. Through Casey, Rona falls in love with the world and her place in it, an animal among other animals.
Rona Maynard wants to love her life again. Stuck in the what-next doldrums after quitting a big job, she needs a new bridge to the world. So, well into their married life, she lets her husband talk her into their first dog, a rescue mutt named Casey. Rona frets about shedding, lost travel opportunities, and arguments about walking duty. She doubts she can love a dog. But when Casey romps through her door, Rona falls hard. Over time he gives her what no human could — a new way of seeing and a pathway to the heart of a moment. Her downtown neighborhood reveals its true face as she explores it with Casey, making new friends and discovering hidden beauty spots. She learns to have adventures on her own stomping ground. Through Casey, Rona falls in love with the world and her place in it, an animal among other animals.
261 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 18, 2023
30 people are currently reading
164 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
March 22, 2023
Starter Dog is perfect for dog parents, especially those of the rescue variety. We will all see ourselves in Rona Mynard’s story. She recounts her experience, at age 65, with getting a rescue dog of unknown breeding. She was not the instigator; that would be her husband. But she reluctantly goes along and soon finds herself in love. Not that Casey is the perfect dog. He has his faults, including not liking their grandson. But those of us with dogs know that unconditional love tends to work both ways and we love our dogs despite their faults.
She is accepted into the world of dog lovers. She learns more about her neighborhood and her neighbors, as living without a fenced yard means multiple long walks a day.
This would also be a good book for anyone considering adopting a dog, as she’s realistic about the changes necessary to incorporate a dog into your life. There are no spur of the moment long nights out or day trips anymore.
As the book goes on, Maynard speaks more along philosophical and moral lines - a move towards kindness brought about because of the time she spends out in her neighborhood.
This isn’t great literature but it’s an enjoyable and thought provoking memoir.
The author narrates the audiobook and does a fine job.
She is accepted into the world of dog lovers. She learns more about her neighborhood and her neighbors, as living without a fenced yard means multiple long walks a day.
This would also be a good book for anyone considering adopting a dog, as she’s realistic about the changes necessary to incorporate a dog into your life. There are no spur of the moment long nights out or day trips anymore.
As the book goes on, Maynard speaks more along philosophical and moral lines - a move towards kindness brought about because of the time she spends out in her neighborhood.
This isn’t great literature but it’s an enjoyable and thought provoking memoir.
The author narrates the audiobook and does a fine job.
April 15, 2023
Canadian author, Rona Maynard, didn't want a dog. She and her husband Paul had been married for a lot of years, and now in their sixties, were settled into their "senior" years. But Paul said "let's get a dog". For two years they searched for "the one", through the various rescue places, until they finally bit the bullet and brought a dog they named "Casey", home. One of the "rules" she and her husband agreed to was each walking Casey an hour a day. And that was when their fun started. Casey had his own ideas about the walks he went on with Rona and Paul and finally, they both agreed they needed help.
Casey changed Rona and Paul's lives, as those who have, and have had dogs, know. Dogs can be challenging, but they'll always give love to their owners. And as Casey directed their lives to fit his (it's what they do!) Rona knew she'd fallen deeply for this outstanding, mischievous and loving dog. It was the best thing Rona and Paul had done in recent years.
Starter Dog by Rona Maynard is a memoir, which was recommended to me by one of my GR friends, and as a dog lover, and previous dog owner, I thought I couldn't go wrong. Casey is an irresistible mutt with loads of love to give, while Rona and Paul were ready for a dog to love (even though Rona didn't believe it) Recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Casey changed Rona and Paul's lives, as those who have, and have had dogs, know. Dogs can be challenging, but they'll always give love to their owners. And as Casey directed their lives to fit his (it's what they do!) Rona knew she'd fallen deeply for this outstanding, mischievous and loving dog. It was the best thing Rona and Paul had done in recent years.
Starter Dog by Rona Maynard is a memoir, which was recommended to me by one of my GR friends, and as a dog lover, and previous dog owner, I thought I couldn't go wrong. Casey is an irresistible mutt with loads of love to give, while Rona and Paul were ready for a dog to love (even though Rona didn't believe it) Recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
February 19, 2023
Starter Dog is a memoir by Canadian author, Rona Maynard. Considering that her husband Paul has always been a dog lover, it’s unusual that they’ve managed to reach the age of sixty-three before he suggests to Rona that they get a dog.
In their relationship, after more than 40 years of marriage: “We had a pattern: he brought me an idea, I told him why it might not work.” There are obstacles to be overcome, in this case, are: dog fur everywhere; the effect on their travel bug; and walks with a dicky knee.
And when, objections neutralised, they do agree, it takes another two years before they find the one: a rescue dog named Tucker (and before that, Shotgun), apparently a Labrador/pug mix that has been trained in prison by a convict. Deciding on a name finally results in Casey Jones, and Casey immediately bonds with Paul; it takes longer with Rona.
Walking Casey turns out to be a whole new experience for Rona: constant stopping to check and leave peemail; eating trash; chasing cars; attacking squirrels; altercations with neighbour dogs; and poor behaviour that leads to park exile.
Expert help is required, and a trainer teaches Paul and Rona what Casey will respond obediently to. Rona learns to shout, and Casey teaches her to sleep. Rona describes how she migrates from being a novice dog owner, to becoming a fully-furred dog-person, with its attendant Insta flooding, special attention to dog food, addiction to dog videos and Casey as the automatic conversation topic.
As a rescue dog, Casey comes without any real history, and a DNA test puts his stated breed in the realms of fantasy: Casey is a beagle-Boston Terrier-bulldog mix. Not knowing who trained Casey to be such a good dog sends Rona and Paul on a trip to Ohio, to Casey’s hometown, to find out more, and trace his journey from there to Ontario.
Living with Casey changes their priorities on furniture preservation, and also bring harmony to their daily lives, helping to connect with strangers with dogs, despite the odd encounter with a nasty owner. Rona recalls the one dog in her childhood and why she didn’t connect then. By the time they are on vacation in Mexico City, just a short period without Casey has Rona seeking a dog-fix.
How does Casey, the Dog Of Very Little Brain, end up with a diploma from the University of Toronto? Will he be ever-hungry for any vaguely-edible morsel? Is it just Rona’s perception that, when Paul walks Casey he attracts pretty young women, while she manages to draw poor cowboys?
Snowfall in Ontario makes walking Casey presents a fracture risk for his ageing owners, so necessitates they go south for the winter, and encounter a whole new set of neighbours during walks. Rona finds herself moved to acts of kindness when out walking Casey, and recalls instances where she could have been kinder. Having Casey even helps her understand her father a little more.
“To run a magazine, I had looked out on the world and shaped a vision of it for readers. To take Casey out on patrol, I ventured into the world and let it surprise me, time after time. I wasn’t just passing through. Not anymore.” Funny and moving, this is a very entertaining read.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and ECW Press
In their relationship, after more than 40 years of marriage: “We had a pattern: he brought me an idea, I told him why it might not work.” There are obstacles to be overcome, in this case, are: dog fur everywhere; the effect on their travel bug; and walks with a dicky knee.
And when, objections neutralised, they do agree, it takes another two years before they find the one: a rescue dog named Tucker (and before that, Shotgun), apparently a Labrador/pug mix that has been trained in prison by a convict. Deciding on a name finally results in Casey Jones, and Casey immediately bonds with Paul; it takes longer with Rona.
Walking Casey turns out to be a whole new experience for Rona: constant stopping to check and leave peemail; eating trash; chasing cars; attacking squirrels; altercations with neighbour dogs; and poor behaviour that leads to park exile.
Expert help is required, and a trainer teaches Paul and Rona what Casey will respond obediently to. Rona learns to shout, and Casey teaches her to sleep. Rona describes how she migrates from being a novice dog owner, to becoming a fully-furred dog-person, with its attendant Insta flooding, special attention to dog food, addiction to dog videos and Casey as the automatic conversation topic.
As a rescue dog, Casey comes without any real history, and a DNA test puts his stated breed in the realms of fantasy: Casey is a beagle-Boston Terrier-bulldog mix. Not knowing who trained Casey to be such a good dog sends Rona and Paul on a trip to Ohio, to Casey’s hometown, to find out more, and trace his journey from there to Ontario.
Living with Casey changes their priorities on furniture preservation, and also bring harmony to their daily lives, helping to connect with strangers with dogs, despite the odd encounter with a nasty owner. Rona recalls the one dog in her childhood and why she didn’t connect then. By the time they are on vacation in Mexico City, just a short period without Casey has Rona seeking a dog-fix.
How does Casey, the Dog Of Very Little Brain, end up with a diploma from the University of Toronto? Will he be ever-hungry for any vaguely-edible morsel? Is it just Rona’s perception that, when Paul walks Casey he attracts pretty young women, while she manages to draw poor cowboys?
Snowfall in Ontario makes walking Casey presents a fracture risk for his ageing owners, so necessitates they go south for the winter, and encounter a whole new set of neighbours during walks. Rona finds herself moved to acts of kindness when out walking Casey, and recalls instances where she could have been kinder. Having Casey even helps her understand her father a little more.
“To run a magazine, I had looked out on the world and shaped a vision of it for readers. To take Casey out on patrol, I ventured into the world and let it surprise me, time after time. I wasn’t just passing through. Not anymore.” Funny and moving, this is a very entertaining read.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and ECW Press
March 12, 2023
I will almost always listen or read anything with a sweet pup on the cover. Sometimes I am left thinking, nope not doing that again and others thinking I am so glad I went along for the ride. This book is the latter. This is all about life with a beloved pup. There are no major things that happen, we just get to go along the ride with Rona and her sweet pup Tucker that she didn’t think was supposed to be her dog and their love story. The decision to bring one into your world and how basically every single thing in yours will change and almost always for the better. Yes, they can be costly, their life spans are too short, some of them shed a lot and who wants to go out in the thunderous rain to walk them and deal with their issues and yet we are always the better for it. How letting one (or more if it works for you) into our hearts, head and homes is the best gift we can ever give to ourselves. There isn’t a single person ever who wouldn’t benefit from the unconditional love of a dog. This story is proof positive of why, Now I am off to the park with my beloved sweet special needs old girl for a very slow walk.
I received a copy of this audiobook from Netgalley.com in exchange for a fair and honest review. My thanks to the author and publisher for the privilege.
I received a copy of this audiobook from Netgalley.com in exchange for a fair and honest review. My thanks to the author and publisher for the privilege.
February 7, 2023
“Let’s take a walk with a very good boy,” and with that irresistible invitation, Rona Maynard leads us on a romp ranging from rose velvet armchairs to rolls of green poop bags.
I smiled throughout, stopping only when pops of humour had me helplessly laughing, or when I paused to savour an exquisite turn of phrase, or when I lost my breath over a dog story that exposed how humans are such “fools for love.”
I am at risk of quoting the entire book.
Like the passage in which Rona says she tended to choose mentors “based on words, reasons and ideas”—until Casey reached out “with paws and nose and tongue.”
“He pulled me into a realm of undiluted feeling,” she says. “For the first time, I didn’t much care what I thought or knew.”
On his daily rounds through the condo, he follows “the slant of light and the currents of the air to find the spot that suited him best.”
And Rona marvels.
“I never knew how many sweet spots we had until he made them his, at least one in every room.”
The sweet spots accumulate. Their neighbourhood “shillyshallying” reveals treasure previously unheard and unseen—hymns, birdsong, candlewicks—Rona’s discoveries holding “no appeal for Casey, yet I owed them all to him.”
Casey’s unconditional love releases in her an abundance of warmth, which she showers upon random strangers in parks and on the street, liberating her from “a lifetime in a stiff heart.”
At night, “his breath ruffled the hairs on my arm, a living breeze.”
Casey, food-obsessed beagle boy, “Pasha of poop,” architect of transformation, nimbly, blithely, reinvents the landscape. Like a daub of accent colour applied to a work of art, he lifts his humans into “the dearest freshness” of their very own lives.
The best books give gifts to readers. How a dog can deepen, soften, a marriage in the becoming of “Us”— “the unlikeliness of our comfort together magnified the joy of it.” How proclaiming “never on the bed” is a futile enterprise guaranteed to make you a chump. How to focus a dog with a “band of rage down his back” away from squirrels and on yourself. And so much more.
Meanwhile, Rona—honest, vulnerable, curious, self-aware and a recovering “Very Important Person”—blends her ravishing love poem to her very good boy with keen observations on art, literature, the human condition, the natural world. She changes us as Casey changes her.
I loved this book.
I smiled throughout, stopping only when pops of humour had me helplessly laughing, or when I paused to savour an exquisite turn of phrase, or when I lost my breath over a dog story that exposed how humans are such “fools for love.”
I am at risk of quoting the entire book.
Like the passage in which Rona says she tended to choose mentors “based on words, reasons and ideas”—until Casey reached out “with paws and nose and tongue.”
“He pulled me into a realm of undiluted feeling,” she says. “For the first time, I didn’t much care what I thought or knew.”
On his daily rounds through the condo, he follows “the slant of light and the currents of the air to find the spot that suited him best.”
And Rona marvels.
“I never knew how many sweet spots we had until he made them his, at least one in every room.”
The sweet spots accumulate. Their neighbourhood “shillyshallying” reveals treasure previously unheard and unseen—hymns, birdsong, candlewicks—Rona’s discoveries holding “no appeal for Casey, yet I owed them all to him.”
Casey’s unconditional love releases in her an abundance of warmth, which she showers upon random strangers in parks and on the street, liberating her from “a lifetime in a stiff heart.”
At night, “his breath ruffled the hairs on my arm, a living breeze.”
Casey, food-obsessed beagle boy, “Pasha of poop,” architect of transformation, nimbly, blithely, reinvents the landscape. Like a daub of accent colour applied to a work of art, he lifts his humans into “the dearest freshness” of their very own lives.
The best books give gifts to readers. How a dog can deepen, soften, a marriage in the becoming of “Us”— “the unlikeliness of our comfort together magnified the joy of it.” How proclaiming “never on the bed” is a futile enterprise guaranteed to make you a chump. How to focus a dog with a “band of rage down his back” away from squirrels and on yourself. And so much more.
Meanwhile, Rona—honest, vulnerable, curious, self-aware and a recovering “Very Important Person”—blends her ravishing love poem to her very good boy with keen observations on art, literature, the human condition, the natural world. She changes us as Casey changes her.
I loved this book.
April 29, 2024
If you want a book about a Canadians opinion on US politics this is your book!
February 21, 2023
Rona Maynard’s new memoir, Starter Dog, is not your typical book about a dog. Casey, the canine protagonist, is not the smartest mutt in the kennel. He doesn’t run, like Lassie, to tell his humans Timmy has fallen down a well.
Rona and her husband Paul are cultured, literary people. I had to look up a few things; a 19th century poet, a bestselling memoir from the 60’s (“a classic tribute to the natural world," now on my reading list). Casey, though, does not endear himself to them by earning straight A’s and a full ride to Sarah Lawrence or his own TV show, but by his admirably dogged doggyness.
While Lassie made friends with squirrels and saved them from squirrel peril, Casey wants only to chase and kill them.
Although he gets the good stuff–sardine treats, toothpaste in a flavor made for dogs, a cushy bed in every room as well as a place on the sofa– unlike many well-loved dogs today, Casey will not be made to endure a wardrobe of cute pajamas and bowties.
Maynard does not think of herself as Casey’s mother.
“Casey’s mom is a bitch from Ohio.”
I have never been one to pass up a dog book. From The Call of the Wild to Old Yeller to The Art of Racing in the Rain, I’ve read and loved them all. Starter Dog is another book about a dog, but so much more.
Maynard writes of celebrating her 50th wedding anniversary during the global pandemic. “Celebrate,” she tells us, descends from the Latin “celebrare,” a marriage of gladness and gravity.
Those words are an apt description of Starter Dog. But don’t worry. In this book, the dog doesn’t die.
Rona and her husband Paul are cultured, literary people. I had to look up a few things; a 19th century poet, a bestselling memoir from the 60’s (“a classic tribute to the natural world," now on my reading list). Casey, though, does not endear himself to them by earning straight A’s and a full ride to Sarah Lawrence or his own TV show, but by his admirably dogged doggyness.
While Lassie made friends with squirrels and saved them from squirrel peril, Casey wants only to chase and kill them.
Although he gets the good stuff–sardine treats, toothpaste in a flavor made for dogs, a cushy bed in every room as well as a place on the sofa– unlike many well-loved dogs today, Casey will not be made to endure a wardrobe of cute pajamas and bowties.
Maynard does not think of herself as Casey’s mother.
“Casey’s mom is a bitch from Ohio.”
I have never been one to pass up a dog book. From The Call of the Wild to Old Yeller to The Art of Racing in the Rain, I’ve read and loved them all. Starter Dog is another book about a dog, but so much more.
Maynard writes of celebrating her 50th wedding anniversary during the global pandemic. “Celebrate,” she tells us, descends from the Latin “celebrare,” a marriage of gladness and gravity.
Those words are an apt description of Starter Dog. But don’t worry. In this book, the dog doesn’t die.
May 16, 2023
Rona Maynard is a latecomer to bonding with a dog. Casey changes her world. It takes a stellar writer to turn a love affair with a dog into a book you look forward to each time you pick it up as you would your morning coffee. She weaves the love story into a rhapsody at once familiar and so new. By the time you finish the book you will love her, her neighborhood, her dog, and like her, you will care more about this world we share.
May 3, 2023
A beautifully written memoir about the depths of life with dogs. Tender, heartwarming and hilarious at times. A must read for anyone with a fur kid.
March 14, 2023
Oh good boy Casey! Spoiler don’t worry, the dog doesn’t die.
To be completely frank, this book brought me so much more than I expected, although, what I expected I’m not wholly sure.
Rona Maynard writes and narrates a beautiful memoir style book about how the dog that she wasn’t entirely sure she wanted brings a complete change of view on the world and on life itself. I love the change that Casey has brought to Rona’s world. I love Rona and Paul’s 50 year strong marriage. I love most of all the person that Rona acknowledges that Casey has made her become.
Strangely enough I recognise Casey very well. I bought a “beagle” puppy during lockdown, he’s never a beagle. We done exactly the same dna test that Rona and Paul done on Casey and Bowie too is a mutt. He’s not my starter dog but perhaps the first dog I’ve ever had who is both the absolute best and worst boy ever. This was touching, uplifting and quite inspiring.
Thank you to NetGalley and ECW press audio for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in return for an honest review.
To be completely frank, this book brought me so much more than I expected, although, what I expected I’m not wholly sure.
Rona Maynard writes and narrates a beautiful memoir style book about how the dog that she wasn’t entirely sure she wanted brings a complete change of view on the world and on life itself. I love the change that Casey has brought to Rona’s world. I love Rona and Paul’s 50 year strong marriage. I love most of all the person that Rona acknowledges that Casey has made her become.
Strangely enough I recognise Casey very well. I bought a “beagle” puppy during lockdown, he’s never a beagle. We done exactly the same dna test that Rona and Paul done on Casey and Bowie too is a mutt. He’s not my starter dog but perhaps the first dog I’ve ever had who is both the absolute best and worst boy ever. This was touching, uplifting and quite inspiring.
Thank you to NetGalley and ECW press audio for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in return for an honest review.
April 27, 2024
I listened to the audiobook and found the narration enjoyable. Unfortunately the story itself wasn’t all that engaging or interesting to me. It was 85% about the author and 15% about the dog. I do appreciate when new dog owners give a lot of thought and time before adopting (since it’s a lifetime commitment) however I felt their path to adoption was overly extreme. Too many details, way too much time and overly picky. Thankfully in the end it all worked out though.
May 19, 2024
3.5 stars. It took me a little while to get into it but once I did it was enjoyable, for the most part. It got unnecessarily political at times but, for the most part, I found it a fun and thoughtful read.
dnf
May 14, 2024This woman is insufferable
January 13, 2025
Would not recommend.
October 13, 2023
"I'm also Casey's human."
As a dog lover reading the absolutely joyous memoir Starter Dog: My Path To Joy, Belonging And Loving This World by reflective author Rona Maynard was a delightful treat.
Rona, in her 60s, newly retired, is looking for her next chapter. Her husband of 40 years, Paul, is once again, as he does every few years, begging for a dog. Rona finally agrees now that they would be home more often to care for it. But Rona is definitely an A personality and she does massive research on dog breeds, breeders, rescue organizations and takes almost two years before they finally rescue a precious fiesty mutt they rename Casey.
One of the things that I really appreciated about her journey into becoming a dog's person is the importance of understanding that this is a decades or longer commitment. You can't get bored, change your mind or just be done with your dog; nor should you want to discard your dog like an old pair of shoes. Rona knows this a lifetime commitment for your dog so it should be for you too.
What she doesn't expect is to change so much of her life, her outlook and her behavior because of Casey. Taking time for his walks she sees her neighborhood in a different light. She meets and happily greets people she would never have acknowledged without Casey by her side. One of the most heartfelt moments is when she admits, "With Casey I just felt I didn't think." She became kinder, said sorry and thank you more and felt emphatic to others.
She's so grateful for Casey she travels to the prison where he was part of a prisoner dog training program to thank the convict that cared for him. Spoiler Alert: she didn't get to see him but did thank the warden.
This memoir is the perfect break from all the stress the world provides and lets you remember that if you start your day with a dog, "happy dogs make happy people."
I received a free copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
As a dog lover reading the absolutely joyous memoir Starter Dog: My Path To Joy, Belonging And Loving This World by reflective author Rona Maynard was a delightful treat.
Rona, in her 60s, newly retired, is looking for her next chapter. Her husband of 40 years, Paul, is once again, as he does every few years, begging for a dog. Rona finally agrees now that they would be home more often to care for it. But Rona is definitely an A personality and she does massive research on dog breeds, breeders, rescue organizations and takes almost two years before they finally rescue a precious fiesty mutt they rename Casey.
One of the things that I really appreciated about her journey into becoming a dog's person is the importance of understanding that this is a decades or longer commitment. You can't get bored, change your mind or just be done with your dog; nor should you want to discard your dog like an old pair of shoes. Rona knows this a lifetime commitment for your dog so it should be for you too.
What she doesn't expect is to change so much of her life, her outlook and her behavior because of Casey. Taking time for his walks she sees her neighborhood in a different light. She meets and happily greets people she would never have acknowledged without Casey by her side. One of the most heartfelt moments is when she admits, "With Casey I just felt I didn't think." She became kinder, said sorry and thank you more and felt emphatic to others.
She's so grateful for Casey she travels to the prison where he was part of a prisoner dog training program to thank the convict that cared for him. Spoiler Alert: she didn't get to see him but did thank the warden.
This memoir is the perfect break from all the stress the world provides and lets you remember that if you start your day with a dog, "happy dogs make happy people."
I received a free copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
March 18, 2023
This engaging and cute audiobook by Rona Maynard was fun and I felt as though I was going through finding my first dog with her all over again. Although it took me a minute to get into the orator I did finally come into step at the end of the first chapter and it was smooth sailing.
The author takes us through making the decision of going from just a cat family with her husband and children and looking for a dog somewhat later in life. She talks about what her idea of the perfect dog was and in searching for the perfect dog postponed picking one I think by about a couple of years.
She and her husband finally find one to adopt from a prison work program with training dogs. The dog had a name that they both didn't really like and so they changed it when they brought the dog home. She goes through her stories about how the dog was allegedly a mixture of two breeds and didn't act like that at all. She would take the dog to the park and the dog would just go nuts over squirrels.
She gives a funny story about how they had to involve a pet trainer that looked even younger to them than their own children and I can identify with that. And they talk about how they went on to train the dog and do a DNA test on the dog and the dog turned out to be a mixture of two breeds she had originally said we're not the perfect dog.
This is a heartwarming tale how a dog ends up picking you and the changes that you get in your life for the positive as the result of having one.
The author takes us through making the decision of going from just a cat family with her husband and children and looking for a dog somewhat later in life. She talks about what her idea of the perfect dog was and in searching for the perfect dog postponed picking one I think by about a couple of years.
She and her husband finally find one to adopt from a prison work program with training dogs. The dog had a name that they both didn't really like and so they changed it when they brought the dog home. She goes through her stories about how the dog was allegedly a mixture of two breeds and didn't act like that at all. She would take the dog to the park and the dog would just go nuts over squirrels.
She gives a funny story about how they had to involve a pet trainer that looked even younger to them than their own children and I can identify with that. And they talk about how they went on to train the dog and do a DNA test on the dog and the dog turned out to be a mixture of two breeds she had originally said we're not the perfect dog.
This is a heartwarming tale how a dog ends up picking you and the changes that you get in your life for the positive as the result of having one.
April 19, 2023
Every one who shares their home with a dog will recognize themselves at some point in this book. In 30+ years, my husband and I have shared our lives with 6 dogs. We would not recognize ourselves without a "fur baby".
When Rona and her husband adopt a rescue dog, they assume he will adjust to their lives. They set clear rules and guidelines before bringing him home. One problem, Casey challenged the rules and changed their lives in ways they could never have predicted. He would open their eyes and expand the boundaries of their comfortable, but boring lives. This book is both heartwarming and entertaining. Read it, then pass it along to someone else who needs a smile today.
When Rona and her husband adopt a rescue dog, they assume he will adjust to their lives. They set clear rules and guidelines before bringing him home. One problem, Casey challenged the rules and changed their lives in ways they could never have predicted. He would open their eyes and expand the boundaries of their comfortable, but boring lives. This book is both heartwarming and entertaining. Read it, then pass it along to someone else who needs a smile today.
April 19, 2023
First of all, I love everything about dogs. Well, nearly everything. But a book featuring a dog.. yes, please!
I have opted out with audiobook, as I found out the author herself narrated it and that for me felt like the story told from the first lips. The beautifully narrated, easy-to-listen book about the author's dog's story is to her heart. It was truly interesting to listen to how her love for dogs, particularly her own dog grew upon her, developed and became a profound part of her life.
I could vividly imagine Casey, the book's canine hero, scamping around looking for treats and cuddles and being the best pal out there. We all need such Casey in our lives.
I have opted out with audiobook, as I found out the author herself narrated it and that for me felt like the story told from the first lips. The beautifully narrated, easy-to-listen book about the author's dog's story is to her heart. It was truly interesting to listen to how her love for dogs, particularly her own dog grew upon her, developed and became a profound part of her life.
I could vividly imagine Casey, the book's canine hero, scamping around looking for treats and cuddles and being the best pal out there. We all need such Casey in our lives.
April 19, 2023
First of all, I love everything about dogs. Well, nearly everything. But a book featuring a dog.. yes, please!
I have opted out with audiobook, as I found out the author herself narrated it and that for me felt like the story told from the first lips. The beautifully narrated, easy-to-listen book about the author's dog's story is to her heart. It was truly interesting to listen to how her love for dogs, particularly her own dog grew upon her, developed and became a profound part of her life.
I could vividly imagine Casey, the book's canine hero, scamping around looking for treats and cuddles and being the best pal out there. We all need such Casey in our lives.
I have opted out with audiobook, as I found out the author herself narrated it and that for me felt like the story told from the first lips. The beautifully narrated, easy-to-listen book about the author's dog's story is to her heart. It was truly interesting to listen to how her love for dogs, particularly her own dog grew upon her, developed and became a profound part of her life.
I could vividly imagine Casey, the book's canine hero, scamping around looking for treats and cuddles and being the best pal out there. We all need such Casey in our lives.
April 17, 2023
As someone who really wants to get a dog but can’t at the moment, I requested this audiobook to live vicariously through the author as she gets her first dog. It did the trick. It’s a gentle, upbeat audiobook to listen to, if a little poetic, whimsical and religious at times.
It’s great to have a book narrated by the author and I feel she did a really good job.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to review an advanced copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
It’s great to have a book narrated by the author and I feel she did a really good job.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to review an advanced copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
September 28, 2023
There is something so special about the relationship between humans and dogs. Although I was raised with dogs, I really got my first dog in my 20s. He is very much a Starter dog – I’m learning so much about taking care of something and about myself as I raise him.
Reading Rona’s account of getting her started dog when she was much further along in her life was absolutely delightful. We follow as she goes from being really reluctant to absolutely loving the dog. She describes her daily walks with a joy that only those of us who do the same can truly understand.
The audio version was delightful, and I highly recommend this book to anybody who just wants a beautiful simple story about how much love these animals can bring into our lives.
Reading Rona’s account of getting her started dog when she was much further along in her life was absolutely delightful. We follow as she goes from being really reluctant to absolutely loving the dog. She describes her daily walks with a joy that only those of us who do the same can truly understand.
The audio version was delightful, and I highly recommend this book to anybody who just wants a beautiful simple story about how much love these animals can bring into our lives.
March 21, 2023
***** I received this audiobook free from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
As a dog lover myself I was instantly drawn to this book. It was even better when right away the author tells you this book does NOT have a dog that dies in the end. It is filled with sweet and fun adventures as this couple decides it is time as they are reaching retirement to adopt their first family dog.
As a dog lover myself I was instantly drawn to this book. It was even better when right away the author tells you this book does NOT have a dog that dies in the end. It is filled with sweet and fun adventures as this couple decides it is time as they are reaching retirement to adopt their first family dog.
March 31, 2023
Starter Dog is a wonderfully written narrative of the life of an, at first, reluctant new dog owner and how her life is forever changed by adopting a dog! As a librarian, I will most certainly recommend Starter Dog to my patrons. You cannot go wrong with this story and you will NOT be able to put it down!
April 3, 2023
Fun, but a thought-provoking book from someone who resisted getting a dog only to become a true dog person.
December 31, 2025
A sweet story about owning a dog for the first time.
March 23, 2023
Great book. I loved the honesty. My only complaint is the author did the narration. I’m not a fan of her voice but the story is so sweet and funny that I finished it.
September 23, 2023
What a wonderful story of learning and love.
July 4, 2023
As a person who became a dog person in middle age, I was primed to love this book because of its canine-positive subject matter, but I also loved Maynard's writing and insights.
January 27, 2025
What a wonderful read this turned out to be! This book Is like a pair of my old favourite slippers,
easy and comforting reading.
I can Identify with so many of the places she talks about In Toronto, and also the stages of life she has been through, so far as a couple life was passing them by as they both had to many commitments. With work getting In the way after 40 years of marriage and work they retired and concentrate on themselves. As a friend once said to me "we our in the last quarter of our lives" - It had never occurred to me before but this time It had become a stark reality.
Finally her husband convinced her that It would be a good Idea If they got a dog Originally having been trained by a prisoner In Clairsville Ohio,Ideally Casey a rescue dog did not fit In to her vision, she would have liked a pedigree dog .
However In the end they chose Tucker but changed the name to Casey, he upset there daily routines, and the general order of the home. Because of the shedding dog hair they dog proofed the whole Condo, making sure that he did not eat things he was supposed to like the tv remote etc! At first he was not allowed to sleep on there bed, but eventually he worked his way around to sleeping on the bed with them.
They gave him a dog bed by the dining room table so he felt Included In the family. He ate Kibble twice a day, and some treats as well. They took him for walks at least twice daily around the neighbour hood sometimes seeing different things every time, as they went past familiar landmarks and took advantage of Photo Ops, and posting them on face book. making new acquaintances along the way, commands mean nothing to a dog unless the human knows how to use them. He loved to chase squirrels , and play In the dog park stealing other dogs toys and balls which Is considered bad manners by other owners and eat poop ! and liked to make friends with other dogs. Casey was enrolled In a University of Toronto training course where he was taught about how to respond to social commands and cues which consisted of stay, sit, etc. he earned a diploma for taking this course.
It was decided there vacation was going to Visiting Casey's roots In Ohio, they always got dog friendly hotels where ever possible when travelling They also went to a Bungalow rental In St Petersburg Florida,for vacations
which they loved most years until It was sold. Then went to stay at Barry's Air BNB but It was just not the same as the Turquoise bungalow but In the same Neighbourhood.
They would always remember what Casey taught them, and the Unconditional love he gave them. Thanks to ECW press for letting me review this advance copy Of Starter Dog which will be published In April 2023. It contains 268 pages. good printing the bright white pages really make the pages stand out.
easy and comforting reading.
I can Identify with so many of the places she talks about In Toronto, and also the stages of life she has been through, so far as a couple life was passing them by as they both had to many commitments. With work getting In the way after 40 years of marriage and work they retired and concentrate on themselves. As a friend once said to me "we our in the last quarter of our lives" - It had never occurred to me before but this time It had become a stark reality.
Finally her husband convinced her that It would be a good Idea If they got a dog Originally having been trained by a prisoner In Clairsville Ohio,Ideally Casey a rescue dog did not fit In to her vision, she would have liked a pedigree dog .
However In the end they chose Tucker but changed the name to Casey, he upset there daily routines, and the general order of the home. Because of the shedding dog hair they dog proofed the whole Condo, making sure that he did not eat things he was supposed to like the tv remote etc! At first he was not allowed to sleep on there bed, but eventually he worked his way around to sleeping on the bed with them.
They gave him a dog bed by the dining room table so he felt Included In the family. He ate Kibble twice a day, and some treats as well. They took him for walks at least twice daily around the neighbour hood sometimes seeing different things every time, as they went past familiar landmarks and took advantage of Photo Ops, and posting them on face book. making new acquaintances along the way, commands mean nothing to a dog unless the human knows how to use them. He loved to chase squirrels , and play In the dog park stealing other dogs toys and balls which Is considered bad manners by other owners and eat poop ! and liked to make friends with other dogs. Casey was enrolled In a University of Toronto training course where he was taught about how to respond to social commands and cues which consisted of stay, sit, etc. he earned a diploma for taking this course.
It was decided there vacation was going to Visiting Casey's roots In Ohio, they always got dog friendly hotels where ever possible when travelling They also went to a Bungalow rental In St Petersburg Florida,for vacations
which they loved most years until It was sold. Then went to stay at Barry's Air BNB but It was just not the same as the Turquoise bungalow but In the same Neighbourhood.
They would always remember what Casey taught them, and the Unconditional love he gave them. Thanks to ECW press for letting me review this advance copy Of Starter Dog which will be published In April 2023. It contains 268 pages. good printing the bright white pages really make the pages stand out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2023
I’m a cat person, but even so, I loved STARTER DOG for its honesty and its author’s willingness to open her heart about how adopting a dog brought the freshness of new love into their lives. Living with Casey, adapting their lives and their home to him, made their empty nest fuller and happier. This is a book not just for dog lovers, but for anyone who may think life holds no further surprises. This is a story that proves the possibility of being, as CS Lewis phrased it, “surprised by joy.”
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