Ever wonder how much your dog understands? Or maybe how much
can he learn? Author John W. Pilley (with Hilary Hinzmann) is about to tell you
in his book, “Chaser, Unlocking the Genius of the Dog Who Knows a Thousand Words.”
I’ll say up front that I received a free review copy of this
book but in no way did that influence my opinion of it. I’ve reviewed several
books over the years and usually I end up donating them either to local
libraries or to my cat club’s raffle (whether I like them or not). But this one
is already highlighted and labeled with my name. As soon as I’m done going over
and over it I will find a special place for it in my own library.
Chaser’s story begins with the early days when the breeder
was only thinking of raising another litter of Border Collies up to her present
day life. And, not to ruin the ending but I think most readers will be happy to
know ahead of time that Chaser is still alive and still learning. No sad
endings here!
We get to see Pilley’s earlier adventures training his
previous dogs. He illustrates his love for the dogs so eloquently. He even
earned the respect of an entire college for his dogs’ good manners. His first
Border Collie, Yasha, and then Chaser, were given permanent college I.D.s to
allow them free access to the college grounds. As a University employee I can
tell you that is rare.
This guy really knows Border Collies. More importantly he
knows dogs. But his research shows that it doesn’t take a degree in Psychology
to have a happy, well-trained dog. He points out first by example and in the
end by the flat out statement that the best reward for a job well-done is play. Isn’t that true for people as
well as other animals?
Although Pilley is a retired professor his writing in this
book is conversational and easy to read. At the same time it gives the reader
just enough real science to satisfy those of us who are familiar with
scientific methods and terminology. I like that Pilley gives us a true
representation of all the strings and red-tape that scientists must deal with.
You’ll see just why takes so long to get any answers out of the lab and into
the public eye.
My favorite aspect of this story though is the love that
shines out in this book. For example, Pilley and his wife, Sally, turned down
requests for some appearances because they didn’t want to transport Chaser in
the cargo hold of a plane. They make sure their car is well-cooled before
Chaser can get in and they organize their days around Chaser’s needs.
I have to mention that several times while reading this book
I found myself drawing comparisons between Chaser and my own beloved Mewdy
Blue. Beginning with the day he was born I nurtured Mewdy Blue’s personality. I
believe our mutual love for each other revealed his special character and
talent. After reading about Chaser, I wonder how much more we could have done
together if we’d only had time. Sadly I was a working stiff for much of his
life. The “what ifs” in life plague me.
Yes, “Chaser” shows you a dog that has learned well over a
thousand words, verbs and many parts of grammar that some humans don’t know.
She runs agility and dotes on her owners. But you get so much more out of this
book. You’ll learn from this book how you can teach your own dog tricks,
obedience, and manners. You’ll also learn how to make sure your dog is happy.
Mostly you’ll come to appreciate the wonders of your pets.
Chaser and her owners continue their search for all that she
can accomplish. I doubt they’ll have any “what ifs” in their relationships. Whether you are a dog lover or an animal lover like me, you'll love this book.
I should add that if you want to learn more about Chaser check out her website at http://www.chaserthebordercollie.com/
Or you can see some of her videos at http://www.chaserthebordercollie.com/#!chasers-channel/c2j
I should add that if you want to learn more about Chaser check out her website at http://www.chaserthebordercollie.com/
Or you can see some of her videos at http://www.chaserthebordercollie.com/#!chasers-channel/c2j
