Bestselling Author/Veterinarian Warns About Impulse Christmas Dog Purchases!

BOISE, Idaho - Dec. 6, 2018 - PRLog -- Bestselling author and veterinarian, Laura Lefkowitz, DVM, warns of the danger of holiday, impulse-pet purchases, and how emotionally destructive they can quickly become.

"Labradors, Golden Retrievers and other high-activity dogs, need heavy, daily exercise to avoid unwanted or destructive behavior," Lefkowitz advises. "If you are frequently gone for most of the day, high-activity dogs are not a great family choice. It is okay to keep your dogs in kennels for short periods of time, but leaving them there for extended hours is sure to result in difficult to manage, behavior problems for your family. Behavioral issues are one of the most common reasons dogs are relinquished back to animal shelters as they grow older. Proper exercise for the breed that you purchase, and basic training classes, will go a long way in preventing behavior problems in the future."

These issues and other concerns are addressed in Lefkowitz's bestselling book : "Bite Me: Tell-All Tales of an Emergency Veterinarian" (ISBN: 9780692602348), written for pet owners, those curious about her profession, as well as students looking at a possible future veterinary career. The book deals very frankly with many of the behind-the-scenes events experienced by veterinarians, that most people are unaware of.

Lefkowitz received her veterinary degree in 1993 from the University of Minnesota, and has spent her career practicing small animal medicine, both as a family veterinarian, as well as an emergency veterinarian. She knows the many dangers of impulse buying, especially where children are involved. She warns that families must do research to find a breed that does not have common health issues.

"Most people are aware of some orthopedic issues in dogs,  but give less thought to breeds prone to allergies, cancer, or heart disease, all of which are expensive and heartbreaking diseases to manage in the long term," she says. "Pugs and Bulldogs and other smush-faced breeds are incredibly cute, however, their anatomy makes it difficult for them to play and exercise normally. They are prone to chronic medical problems which are difficult to manage. If you want an active, healthy pup for your children, this type of dog is not the best choice."

"Bite Me," also addresses the high rate of depression and mental distress for veterinarians, including the highest suicide rate for any profession. Despite some blunt truths, the book is also filled with many laugh-out-loud moments, endearing stories, and optimism told with obvious commitment and compassion.

"Bite Me: Tell-All Tales of an Emergency Veterinarian" is available in print and digital formats through Amazon, Barnes & Noble and through any retail bookstore. Visit the book Website at http://www.BiteMeVet.com


Laura C. Lefkowitz is available for interviews, local book talks & signings.