Book cover with a hand holding a dog paw

Books and Booklets

Every year, countless pets enter homes without enough thought given to the long-term commitment required—and far too many of them end up in shelters or rescues as a result.

These books exist to interrupt that cycle. Created for both first-time and seasoned pet owners, each title addresses the real-world questions, challenges, and responsibilities that come with pet ownership—before a pet is acquired and throughout the pet’s life.

Our goal is simple: fewer surrenders, stronger human-animal bonds, and more pets staying where they belong—at home. Additional books and resources are always in development, so we encourage you to sign up for our email updates and grow with us.


Because pets deserve commitment, preparation, and a lifetime of care.

Books
A young girl playing ball with an Australian Shepherd in the back yard

Learning the Basics of Pet Ownership: Consider the Six Keys Before Bringing Home A Pet of Any Kind

Every year, countless pets are surrendered to shelters or rescues - not because they are unloved, but because their owners were not fully prepared for the realities of pet ownership. Understanding what to consider before bringing a pet into your home is one of the most effective ways to prevent re-homing and create a successful, lifelong relationship.

Several years ago, I decided to write a book that would cover the important aspects of pet ownership. The idea for “Top Ten Things to Know Before You Get a Pet” quickly evolved into something deeper and more meaningful. The list of things that should be considered before and after bringing home a pet fell into six distinct groups. I wasn’t quite prepared for this, but as I continued to work on this project, it became clearer that the key to creating a potentially “perfect” relationship. These six areas now form the foundation of what I call The Six Keys to Responsible Pet Ownership:

  •           Commitment
  •           You and Your Family
  •            Financial and Living Circumstances
  •           Research of the Pet
  •            Locating Reliable Sources
  •       Living With Your Pet

If the potential new owner seriously considers the questions that I have raised in myRead more:https://www.itsdoggoneawesome.com/blogs/news/learning-the-basics-of-pet-ownership-consider-the-six-keys-before-bringing-home-a-pet-of-any-kind

  • REVIEW

    "Hayes’ books, Before You Get a Pet, Top Reasons Why People Get Rid of Their Pets, and Keeping Your Pets should be required reading for anyone considering getting a pet or giving up their pet. The books are concise and to the point about being a responsible pet owner, mincing no words about the importance of our role in the well-being of our pets." ~ Elizabeth Coalson, Founder, National Canine Advocacy Group

    Six Important Questions

    "With more adoptable pets than ever, you need to be informed. But in a world where we're inundated with information it's hard to know which way to go.Tammy Hayes' book, So You Want A Dog, asks questions that are basic to acquiring a dog. This excellent work sorts through the myriad of information to bring you the six important keys that can help you make the decision of whether they should get a dog at this time in your life. It's well written and easy to read. I highly recommend it."

    Review on Amazon

Pet Support Program

It's DogGone Awesome's Pet Support Program will develop several initiatives to help lower the pet population in shelters and rescues. They are:

  • Establish more accessible education programs for the general public

  • Provide quality information that potential new pet owners can easily study to help them decide if they are ready to bring home a pet

  • Establish programs nationwide that will assist pet owners when they have any type of issue that may put another pet in the shelter or rescue system

  • Establish a nationwide program that will assist those pets whose owners may need hospitalization, moved to a nursing home, or have passed away

  • Encourage the human-animal bond and help create more awareness of the unique qualities and rewards of pet ownership

Profits of all sales will be put toward the purchase of an appropriate facility, development of the programs listed, and establishing a 501(k) non-profit organization to assist those in need. Learn more about us here: https://www.itsdoggoneawesome.com/pages/about-us

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