New dog-lovers' guide a little gem

ENTERTAINMENT NEWS - The latest literary offering by the academic and former South African ambassador, Dr Denis Worrall, is an absolute gem and must-read for each and everyone with a dog at home.

The book, printed in a sizable font (hooray!), is accessible to readers of all ages - so, if you share your home with man's best friend, be sure to read Posh and friends, a dog-lover's guide to happy dogs - a witty, tender guide written by a passionate dog lover.

Worrall tells the story of his lifelong interaction with dogs with the focus on his beloved Posh, a female former stray of the ''Africanis breed with a strong Labrador strain". He and his wife, Anita, took Posh in at the end of January 2017 when she was about 5 months old.

Observing Posh closely on a daily basis, the author became increasingly interested in the history of dogs, their differences and behaviour, and decided to share his experiences and knowledge with other dog owners and lovers. And, when it came to personality and general dog behaviour and how to understand a dog's needs, of course checking the facts with his beloved Posh!

Due to her white chest and paws creating a tuxedo effect, the puppy was named Posh.

The guide includes the domestication of dogs 10 000 years ago, main groups of dogs, all about puppies, dog signals and commands, the psychology of dogs, their senses, intelligence, dogs and children, exercise, routine, dogs in apartments, security and vacations, to name a few. All Worrall's anecdotes, research and tips are shared in a user-friendly way so that all dog owners (and their dogs) will benefit from the guide. The text is interspersed with delightful poems about dogs, some touching and some quirky and funny.

This is a highly enjoyable read and my little Maltese poodle, Zack, is already reaping the benefits.

• Posh and friends is published by GreenShootsBooks and available at book stores countrywide, on Amazon and from the distributor, Sula Books: suzette@sula.co.za. Dr Denis Worrall is also the author of The Independent Factor - My personal journey through politics and diplomacy.