Laoch - Lay-ock the Guide Dog Puppy

This is the true story of a guide dog puppy named Laoch, which means "hero" in Irish. The author and artist raised the puppy and then gave him up for his final guide dog training after a year-and-a-half of shared love. The story is told from the puppy's perspective. The love, humor, and playful adventures will engage all children and adults who love animals. Each of the 31 illustrations represents a real-life adventure and tries to reflect the dog's feelings as he playfully attacks each new experience. The book gives children an appreciation of how puppies are raised that will eventually go on to help blind people who depend on working dogs for help in their routine daily living. Many of the training steps shown would apply to all puppies, not just those being raised to become guide dogs. The illustrations are done in a variety of art styles to give children an appreciation for various art forms. Although this is primarily a children's book, people of all ages can identify with many of the puppy's adventures. This book would be helpful for anyone training a puppy for a pet, or for someone who is considering training a guide dog puppy. Or, for someone who just loves puppies! The book also gives some insight as to the emotion involved in giving up a dog after a year-and-a-half of very intensive love and shared experiences.