This book is a memoir of my experiences from three decades as a small animal veterinarian. Within it are twelve stories of captivating cases, humorous events, and touching moments. In the style of James Herriot's beloved nonfiction, I share the tales of my patients, who can't tell the stories themselves.The chapters unfold with dramatic and often comical situations, and quirky pet parents. Some chapters feature medical dramas, while others highlight the amazing individuals I've enc...

"Not since the touching and inspiring stories of James Herriot---which caused me to want to become a veterinarian-- have I been so reminded of why I love what I do and why others love it too. As each case unfolds and each mystery is solved we learn a little more about Dr. Schmidt and what makes him tick. By the end, his compassion, humor, and humility shine through so that we not only have shared his journey but think of him as a friend."-- Dr. Marty Becker, America's Vet. Veterina...

In 1969, young Army veterinarian Dr. Frank Lux arrived in Vietnam expecting to treat a few sick dogs and keep his head down. Instead, he finds himself stationed on Hill 327 outside Da Nang, one of the most active military working-dog posts in Southeast Asia. What follows is a year that will test his skill, his courage, and his heart in ways he never imagined. Surrounded by the chaos of war, Frank discovers that his patients are no ordinary animals. The German Shepherds who stand watch with...