Paws of Courage: True Tales of Heroic Dogs That Protect and Serve

This compact, photo-filled book celebrates service dogs of all kinds as Furstinger profiles more than 20 real-life combat, rescue, police, and tracker dogs, among others. They include a golden retriever named Bretagne, who searched for survivors at ground zero on 9/11; Mas, a Newfoundland graduate of the Italian School of Water Rescue Dogs, trained to save drowning swimmers; and German shepherds Rocky and Rosdas, who track poachers in Tanzania. Furstinger explains how various breeds’ physical, behavioral, and biological characteristics enable them to excel (for example, Newfoundlands have a water-repellent undercoat). Descriptions of the powerful bonds between service dogs and their handlers, as well as happy service dog retirements, contribute to a lively and touching narrative. Ages 10–up. (Apr.)