Note: I don’t necessarily feel that I can truly spoil anything about this book, as it is much more about what each reader gets out of it, than the mere contents on their own.
Informative, family friendly, and loaded with heart. Tracey Stewart is one of those writers who you can tell cares deeply about her subject matter. I appreciate the ways in which she discusses living more harmoniously with the many creatures we share our day-to-day lives with. She’s not overly preachy or dramatic. She simply expresses how much she cares about the welfare of animals and discusses the tragic ways that they are suffering when we turn a blind eye.
“Do Unto Animals” serves as a reminder that we aren’t as different from animals as we like to pretend we are. They have feelings and needs that are not so dissimilar to our own. I think in this modern world it’s easy to forget the needs of the animals we share it with. We bring dogs and cats into our homes as companions, but forget they can’t just be left inside with nothing to do all day. We are frustrated by the creatures that may invade our yards or homes, but forget that they existed in that space long before us. We enjoy a meal with family, friends, or in solitude, but forget (whether intentionally or not) about the animals that provided that meal for us. Tracey gently reminds us of these things.
Ironically, the most important thing Tracey does is humanize each of these animals. Dogs can feel lonely and experience grief, fear, and uncertainty. Cats can go stir crazy being cooped up all day. Squirrels, mice, rabbits, and other “pests” are simply trying to survive in a constantly changing world. Horses are highly empathic and can read people’s emotions (perhaps even better than some people). Cows and pigs mourn the loss of their children. Roosters will sacrifice themselves for their hens and chicks. Goats can be playful and care-free, when given the space. Turkeys mate for life and grieve the loss of their partners.
As if the thoughtful information weren’t enough, Tracey also includes crafts and activities to encourage us to live more harmoniously with these animals. She has simple things such as making toys to help keep our pets entertained at home. She also includes more complicated activities such as how to build a pollinator garden or cozy chicken coop. As a mom, she makes many of these activities easy to get the whole family in on. While much of her emphasis is on educating and encouraging us to live in harmony with animals, I think her book can also go a long way in reminding us to live a little more in-sync with one another.
If you happen to decide to read this book (or have already), please let me know your thoughts. What were some animal facts that surprised you? What were some you already knew? Have you tried any of the activities? I hope you all have a wonderful day. Remember to consider the ways your words and actions are impacting all things around you.