Dogfella: How an Abandoned Dog Named Bruno Turned This Mobster's Life Around

Guiliani, a low-level mobster with ties to the Gotti family, was deep into drugs and booze when he encountered an abused dog tied to a parking meter one morning in 2006. Incensed at the cruelty, he rescued the dog, took him to the vet, and nursed him back to life. That mangy Shih Tzu, whom Guiliani named Bruno, would change his life in ways he couldn't have imagined. His path to redemption as a dog rescuer and operator of a pet grooming boutique (which later became the focus of a reality show) is neither quick nor direct. Guiliani's frank and often heartwarming tale is a study in contrasts. He's both a tough ex-con who hustled coke and steroids to fuel benders that could last for days, and a remarkably tender and softhearted animal lover seemingly determined to rescue each and every abused or abandoned animal he encounters. In some cases these two worlds collide, such as when Guiliani organizes a mob-style "sit-down" to negotiate the release and proper care of a dog who came into the boutique looking tattered and filthy. Guilani's unique story is likely to resonate with animal lovers, and even inspire them to speak up and take action against animal abuse. (June)