Looking for a life-affirming book that warms the cockles on this grey January day? Have your friends put a moratorium on you talking about, posting about, Whatsapping about your beloved cat/dog/hamster? Then these shaggy dog (shaggy pet?) stories will be right up your street...
Grazia books - 19 March
Lost Dog - A Love Story - Kate Spicer (Ebury)
The extraordinary story of a women who adopts a rescue Lurcher, forms a deep bond with him at a low point in her life - only for him to disappear. She tirelessly trawls the streets of London looking for him, coming across fascinating characters at all times of the day and night before eventually finding him. But it's so much more than a lost dog - it looks at what our love of animals means to us, how prepared people can be to help (the story went viral at the time) and an insightful look at being a modern urban woman and 'pet lady'. …and other books for when no one will listen to you talking about your pets any more/for when you've read all of the Instagram pet accounts
Everybody Died So I Got a Dog - Emily Dean (Hodder)
Grief, growing up and grooming form the backbone of this hugely touching memoir. Emily Dean's sister and both parents all died within three years leaving her a family person very alone, so she did what she'd both longed for and avoided: committed to a puppy. Wrenching sobs and daft giggles in equal measure.
Animal Matters: Diary of an Inner City Vet - Charlotte Rea (Coronet)
With as many horrifying stories as heartwarming ones, this is a fascinating look at a year in the life of a vet at a London animal charity hospital. There are some proper belly laughs as well as some insights that will truly stick with you - and after reading it you'll never buy a dog online.
Marley & Me - John Grogan (Hodder)
Unconditional love for a dog whose total failure to 'get' what living with humans requires is the essence of this iconic and hilarious pet-love book. Marley is a chaotic maniac but Grogan and his family's adoration shines through every page. And then there's the ending. Which we prefer not to talk about…
Till the Cows Come Home - Sara Cox (Hodder)
Coxy's memoir about growing up on a farm is as funny as you'd expect, genuinely touching and has some excellent 80s and 90s details. Her love of animals is infectious and her story goes beyond just her pony Gus, with tales of cows, rats and even a maggot farm.