Kindred Spirits: How the Remarkable Bond Between Humans and Animals Can Change the Way We Live

"Animals are a gift to the human race--a gift that humans rarely take full advantage of. Only now are we even beginning to understand what a marvelous blessing animals truly are."

When Allen Schoen began practicing veterinary medicine twenty-three years ago, his peers scoffed at his assertion that animals have feelings and emotions. Today he is one of America's most celebrated veterinarians, traveling worldwide to treat the domestic animals of scores of clients and working daily to improve the ways we understand and interact with our animal friends. Kindred Spirits shares the transformative power of Schoen's remarkable methods and his vision for a society in which we cease to be owner and pet, human and animal, but are simply respected companions connected by an inimitable bond--kindred spirits.

Treating animals just as any healer would treat human beings, Schoen draws on his extensive experience in veterinary practice and the latest research in animal neurophysiology to show how humans and animals can mutually benefit from heightened awareness and respect. Along the way, he explores how alternative healing methods are revolutionizing his profession, and, in the tradition of James Herriot, shares heartwarming, fascinating stories of animals and their caretakers who have deeply enriched each other's lives.

Through moving scenes--such as the cancer-stricken dog that helped its guardian cope with diabetes, or the ailing German shepherd, King, who fights to stay alive so he can assist and comfort his ailing human companion--Kindred Spirits details the many ways in which the human-animal bond can provide a wellspring of love and support, and help us all lead happier, healthier, and more fulfilling lives.

Kindred Spirits also outlines Schoen's special prescription for improving the care we give our animals and deepening the kindred connection between us. He shows us how to ensure the well-being of our animal companions through adopting simple healing practices at home, such as providing them with the most nutritious foods and performing a "natural pet scan" weekly to identify any major health concerns.

Through simple techniques such as co-species meditation, kindred relaxation, and sharing mindful moments, Schoen shows us how we can enhance our relationship with our animals and our connection with the world around us. Creating a new synthesis of conventional veterinary and alternative medicine, and offering a timely vision for all creatures great and small, Kindred Spirits will touch and enlighten anyone seeking deeper levels of awareness and uplifting stories of true love.

Allen M. Schoen, D.V.M., M.S., is one of the most sought-after doctors of veterinary medicine in the nation. He frequently lectures at conferences and schools across the United States and is the author of three other books, including Love, Miracles, and Animal Healing. An affiliate faculty member at Colorado State University of Veterinary Medicine, he lives in Sherman, Connecticut.