The Dog Lady of Mexico-Book review
The Dog Lady of Mexico
review by Susan M. Ewing
Book review
The Dog Lady of Mexico offers a look at what rescue work is like and it’s not all wagging tails and happy adopters. It’s no surprise that rescuers tend to burn out, and reading this book, you have to wonder why Rose hasn’t crashed and burned, especially given the seemingly endless parade of puppies and adult dogs that arrive at her rescue. There are many small triumphs in the story, but just as many heartbreaking moments that would have stopped a less determined woman. If a good read is what you want then this is the book for you. If you’re thinking rescue is a romantic undertaking, this book should change your mind.
The book is written as a novel, with fictional characters portraying events from the dog lady’s real-life experiences. as the “dog lady.” Since the author includes photos of many of the dogs mentioned in the book. I would have preferred a non-fiction account, while changing names to protect the innocent, or the guilty.
As it was, I kept wondering if certain events were amalgams, or if they had happened as written. Did Alison (Rose in the book) really have a screaming melt-down? Did someone else? I’d have liked more information on how she gradually learned to give injections and set up IV lines. There’s an amazing learning curve from the first dog Rose rescues to housing over 40 dogs. It would have been interesting to read about this.
The Dog Lady of Mexico
In the novel, the rescue efforts draw more and more volunteers. The reader is left with the sense that Rose and her friends will keep helping the dogs.
From notes at the back of the book, it sounds like the author has developed an efficient organization and that speaking engagements may be helping with expenses. I’d have liked more of that in the book. I also would have felt closer and more sympathetic toward a first-person telling of the events. Still, it’s a fascinating story. One dog at a time is given a chance at a better life.
review by
Susan M. Ewing
Past president, Cat Writers’ Association
Past secretary, Dog Writers Association of America
Award-winning author, 14 animal books
“Cats! Train Your Owner” (Flash Cards)
Numerous magazine articles
Pet columnist
