PupStart
Old Dog, New Dog
From two revered experts, a concise guide to caring for a beloved senior dog and skillfully introducing a puppy to the household in a way that allows both dogs to flourish
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It’s a natural impulse: As dog owners watch their canine best friend age, they think about getting a puppy, hoping that the new pup will be influenced by the older dog while softening the inevitable loss. But is that the right step? Supporting an aging dog who’s declining while attending to the demands of a puppy presents unique challenges. Can both be done well at the same time?
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In this first-of-its-kind guide, senior dog expert Helen St. Pierre and puppy expert Kathy Callahan have come together to help dog lovers answer this question and navigate the terrain with joy and compassion. Old Dog, New Dog is the singular resource that can guide people to good decisions and great care of dogs both young and old. Readers will find:
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• critical points to consider when deciding whether it’s the right time to add a puppy
• suggestions for how to best manage the most difficult aspects of a household with both a senior dog and a puppy
• guidance on what changes to expect as time goes by
• practical tips for assessing an older dog’s well-being and keeping them comfortable and safe
• an overview of puppyhood basics — a glimpse into the realities of adding a puppy to the family
• key considerations for the painful decision of when it’s time to say goodbye to an old friend
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Designed to be read and digested quickly, this concise book guides readers through a common but rarely covered scenario, empowering them to navigate it with confidence and grace.
Early Reviews!
“This book fills an empty space on the bookshelf of every dog lover out there, providing a pattern for us to follow as we enter the agonizing and thrilling paradox of letting go of, and welcoming, these treasured friends.”
-- Kim Brophey, author of Meet Your Dog
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“... an essential read for anyone pondering the decision of adding another dog to a household with a senior dog…”
– Jennifer Shyrock, founder of Family Paws
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“Kathy and Helen have combined forces to create this incredible, much-needed resource . . . As a perfect team, they answer with articulate simplicity the questions you may have about whether or not to take this step, and how to set you and your canine companions up for success...”
– Pat Miller, author of The Power of Positive Dog Training
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“. . . a must-read for every pet guardian who is considering adding a new puppy to their home while facing the sadness of saying goodbye to a beloved older four legged family member. It's all you will need for saying both hello and goodbye in a way that is loving and honors everyone involved…”
--Viviane Arzoumanian, founder of PumpkinPups Dog Training
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“This book is a literary miracle: a fast and fascinating read that moves quickly yet is dense with practical, useful advice . . . I have been a professional dog trainer for over forty years and on every page I was surprised by succinct, practical advice that was ready to implement . . . "
– Sue Sternberg, canine behavior specialist​
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“This is the book I wish I had eight years ago, when heartbroken from the loss of one senior dog we transitioned a puppy in with our remaining senior. .. Kathy and Helen create an essential playbook for managing this phase with care and grace. … This collaboration is a gift to both dog professionals and caregivers alike.”
– Marlene O'Neill Laberge, MSW, LFDM
"How wonderful that such compassionate, knowledgeable experts have joined forces to lead us through the seasons of multi-dog households! OLD DOG, NEW DOG is a unique resource, full of practical tips that help growing dog families successfully navigate life together, from potty time to pain relief."
– Wendy Sunshine, author of Tender Paws
“Trainers and veterinarians will be very thankful to have this thought-provoking, easy-to-digest resource to place in the hands and hearts of their clients who are thinking about getting a puppy to raise alongside their aging dog..”
--Marc Bekoff, Ph.D., Canine and The Emotional Lives of Animals
