Books (click on the title to purchase from Amazon.com)

	The Stray Dog: From a True Story by Reiko Sassa by Marc Simont. Caldecott award-winning author Simont wrote and illustrated this book which tells the true story of a family who finds a stray dog they played with in the park. They go back and decide to adopt the dog, who was being chased by a dogcatcher the following week. Ages 3-8
	What Is A Vegetarian? by Debra Stewart. Debbie Lou Productions, Murray, UT: 2005. A book for small children that answers that question. It also delivers a basic ethical concept as to why vegetarians do not eat meat. Ages 3-7
	Jasper's Day by Marjorie Blain Parker and Janet Wilson. Toronto, Canada: Kids Can Press, 2002. This book tells the story of a young boy Riley and his family who are going through the loss of their golden retriever, Jasper. It sensitively describes the family’s special last day with Jasper (who is in lots of pain and sick with cancer) and their decision to put him to sleep. Selected as the best picture book by NAHEE in 2003, this book is helpful for families who are going through a similar experience and acknowledges the sadness and loss felt. Ages 4-8
	Diary of a Worm by Doreen Cronin and illustrated by Harry Bliss, 2003. It's an amusing diary written from a worm's perspective and helps students view life from a different perspective. Ages 4-8
	A Dog's Best Friend: An Activity Book for Kids and Their Dogs by Lisa Rosenthal, Chicago Review Press Inc., 1999. This book gives more than 60 suggestions of activities for children to do with their dogs. It teaches basic dog needs, instills a sense of responsibility and promotes a strong bond between children and their pets. It also contains additional resources about animal related websites, facts, and organizations. Ages 6-12 Saving Emily (Young Readers) by Nicholas Read. Prometheus Books, 2001. Chris and Gina are able to work together to help an unusual heifer, Emily, thanks to Mr. Bridges and his animal “Rescue Ranch.” Ages 8-11 Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo. Cambridge: Candlewick Press, 2000. Won NAHEE’s award of the best chapter book in 2003. It tells the story of a ten year old girl Opal, the homeless dog that she adopts, Winn-Dixie, and the funny adventures and friendships that they have together. Age 8 and up Straydog