Rescue Road Trips founder Greg Mahle says, "Every job in rescue is essential to the process. Some risk life and limb, some their financial security, but all risk losing and regaining pieces of their hearts over and over again." Journalist Peter Zheutlin embeds himself in the emotional world of dog rescue to tell the stories of its dedicated and unsung heroes, all the while stealing pieces of his readers' hearts.
Due to a culture that views dogs as property and denounces spaying and neutering, states such as Louisiana and Texas are overrun with unwanted canines. These animals roam the streets and overwhelm the kennels. If they don't die from disease, thousands of adoptable pets are euthanized because there isn't enough space or money to care for them. Volunteers like Kathy Wetmore of Houston Shaggy Dog Rescue and Keri Toth of the Humane Society of Central Louisiana work tirelessly, often spending their own money to provide care and find homes--primarily in northeastern states--for these forsaken creatures, while also attempting to advocate for change in attitudes and policies.
Mahle bridges the miles between rescuing angels and adopting families, driving the adoptees twice a month in his truck, fitted out especially for canine transport. Zheutlin travels with Mahle on his route to experience first-hand the ups and downs, the struggles and the rewards, as well as the links in the rescue chain most people never see.
At turns both agonizing and uplifting, Rescue Road is eye opening and hopeful. It's highly recommended for any and all dog lovers. --Jen Forbus of Jen's Book Thoughts