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With Alex By My Side reviewed by Karen MacLeod



Available through Toad Hall Press, With Alex By My Side by Joel Davis   Stars Image
Biography - Biographical
ISBN: 1893407039
Publisher: Toad Hall Company, Laceyville, PA
Price: $14.95
Distribution: Trade Paperback

This little book is the story of how in search for a pet, Joel Davis and his
wife Nancy, came away with something more.

Joel found himself with more than just a pet, he discovered "Alex," who's own 
animal-human bond with him, liberates Joel to some extent from his Epilepsy. 
This miniature dachshund, Alex became an "assistance dog." The instinct for 
this work must be developed, and not necessarily through training. This 
particular little dog is one who can predict the occurrence of seizures. 
Because of this uncanny ability, Joel Davis is now aware when a seizure may 
strike, and find a way to protect himself from injury in advance.

I, too, have a disability. I found the writing style simple, and the author's 
praise for Alex's skills, heavy, because of his emotional closeness to his 
disability and to Alex. This book can be both enjoyable and informative. 
People are familiar with Guide Dogs for the blind, but assistance dogs such as 
Alex, are not yet commonplace. You may also learn something about Epilepsy, as 
it applies to Mr. Davis' life and Epilepsy in general.

The appendices in the book will also provide useful information on various 
related topics.
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