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Be the Pack Leader: Use Cesar's Way to Transform Your Dog . . . and Your Life, by Cesar Millan with Melissa Jo Peltier (Read by the Author)


ABRIDGED AUDIOBOOK
5 HOURS ON 4 CDs
Be the Pack Leader
Buy from Amazon.com


Cesar Millan, star of National Geographic Channel's "Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan," and Melissa Jo Peltier offer an entertaining and informative look at the world of dog psychology and how to apply those principles to attain a happy life for your dog as well as for yourself. His approach is based on the human establishing himself as the leader of the pack (the dog and the owner) by using calm-assertive energy. He cites numerous examples of seemingly uncontrollable dogs who experience miraculous changes in behavior after he helps the owner understand the dog's needs and apply leadership energy the dog respects. A particularly touching story is the one about the incorrigible Dalmation puppy that is given to the men at a fire station as an alternative to euthanasia. The big, brave firemen are no less terrorized by the puppy than the original owners had been. When Cesar is brought in to help, he shows the men how to be consistent with their calm-assertive training of the puppy. In time, the puppy becomes a trustworthy and valued service animal, going to schools and teaching the children how to "Stop, Drop and Roll."

By applying the principles Cesar outlines in his book, the listener can also become a more effective and fulfilled member of a group, whether it's a business, a family, a team, a club or a group of friends. In fact, a subtitle of the book is "Use Cesar's Way to Transform Your Dog…and Your Life." He talks about the changes he's been able to help clients bring about in their own lives as they work to correct their dogs' problems. He gives examples of the ways dogs react to the human fears and anxieties of their owners. Cesar has done his homework. Interspersed with the dog training advice are quotes from noted self-help experts, so the audio book becomes not just informational, but motivational.

Cesar's sincerity comes through in his narration of his book. His concern for people is evident, but his true passion lies in seeing that dogs are treated in a way that ensures their safety and contentment. Along with training tips, he gives breed specific characteristics so that owners can either chose appropriate dogs or can understand the instinctive behaviors of the dogs they already have. This book is highly recommended for anyone who spends time or plans to spend time with a dog. He reminds the listener that dogs are not little people with human motives. They live in the moment and according to him, "To a dog, everyday is Christmas Day." Wow, what a great way to remember to appreciate the wonder of every day!

Ruth Mormon
11/30/07