I have a fascination with animal behavior and, having had the pleasure of listening to Dr. Grandin lecture, I immediately knew I had to read this book. Not only was it a good behavior book, it was one of the best books I had read in quite a while. For those of you unfamiliar with Dr. Grandin, she is likely one of the most successful individuals with autism in the world. Diagnosed with the condition in the 1950s, during a time when individuals were typically institutionalized, Dr. Grandin pursued a PhD and has become a leading expert on animal behavior. Her particular areas of interest and expertise are in humane handling and slaughter condtions in the livestock industry.

Don't let this turn you away from the book. Her insight into the animal mind is incredible. Many of her teachings and explanations of animal behavior are tied to the premise that the inner working of the mind of an autistic individual is very similar to that of animals, in that how they perceive situations, reason, relate to touch, etc. are very similar. She has taken this theory and applied it extensively in the real world to the point it has become accepted practice and garnered Dr. Grandin world-wide fame for her lectures, handling systems and insight into the animal world.

From dog trainers to cowboys this should be required reading for anyone who deals with animals.

Do you have a book you'd like to recommend to others? Send your suggestions to gundogdoc@gundogdoc.com.