Labracadabra Book 2

From United International Network, 53 Park Drive, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia. Price: $Aus32.45; $US19.00, StgUK13.00 (includes post and packaging)

A POPULAR saying that is at present doing the rounds of the doggie websites goes something like this - If dogs don't go to heaven when they die, then I want to go where they went! And yet another states - I know a great many dogs who have earned their place in heaven ... but very few people!

Once you have read a copy of Labracadabra you will be convinced that both those quotes could not be more true. There is the story of Tonka who made a huge difference in the life of a very depressed owner. Tonka was the laid-back pup in the litter and his temperament proved to be perfect. Not only did he act as a calming influence on his owner - he also played with the family's yellow Labrador who was too boisterous, having a calming effect on her as well.

Vanna's story demonstrates highly intelligent calculation. When she was 14 months old a new litter arrived from her mum, and their owner kept Jeremy out of this litter. One night Jeremy was sitting on his owner's knee when Vanna came running in from outside and pulled up as she saw Jeremy sitting where she wanted to be. She thought for a few minutes, then grabbed Jeremy's favourite toy, and began to play right in front of him. As Jeremy paid more and more attention to her she increased the intensity of her play, squeaking and chewing his toy in a frenzy of fun. Then he could bear it no longer and as he got up and jumped off his owner's knee Vanna flicked the toy backwards to land a few feet behind her. As Jeremy flew past her to retrieve his toy, Vanna quickly took his place on the prized knee.

Altogether there are 58 true stories of Labrador escapades, humour, loyalty and intelligence, and the difference they made in the lives of their owners and friends. The stories are all quite short and make this a book you can pick up and read anywhere, whether you have only a few minutes to spare, or half an hour.

Labracadabra was produced by combining stories from Labrador owners and breeders form all over the world, who have put pen to paper in order to assist with funding for the Victoria Guide Dogs Assn, as well as to tell the rest of the world about their own very special friend.

For orders and to learn more about the book and the organisation go to the website at www.uin.com.au/labracadabra