Discovering David Congalton's book was a blessing. I needed to read only a few sentences to know this book was wonderful, and meant for me. Congalton had the courage to share his pain, reactions most of us would be embarrassed to reveal except to those we are closest to--and maybe not even them. This is the first book I've seen to share what is genuinely helpful to those grieving the loss of canine and feline family members and those who want to help them. He addresses the insensitivity and the ignorance of bosses and co-workers and others and even--most hurtful--of close family members.

"Just do what you need to do," someone close to me advised during the earlier days of my loss. Congalton takes us through his early days and nights and beyond, revealing the thoughts and emotions he (and wife Charlotte) experienced along the way, including lessons from "Pet Grief 101" learned the hard way, like "stay away from people who don't understand, even if it's family." He eloquently describes the standing room only memorial service held for his five little ones lost in the pre-holiday fire. Professional advice is not the primary role of this book--neither is it lacking as David reports on the radio show he did with some mental health experts who compassionately discussed pet loss when he returned to work. Interwoven among David's primary story of trauma and loss and new beginnings are reprints of articles describing his life of joy with his animal companions. It is just the right mix.


A Sparkle in the Darkness   September 15, 2000
 7 out of 7 found this review helpful

If you're only going to read one book on pet loss, this is the one...As a social worker with older adults I am familiar with the issues of loss and grief. When it's your own loss, it's a different story, and all that you know matters little. Within six weeks I lost both my canine kids due to illness. There were few people who understood the depth of my loss; the assorted pet loss books didn't seem to grasp the intensity of my bond--the only book that came close dealt with the loss of a (human) child. Then I found "Three Dogs, Two Cats."

Discovering David Congalton's book was a blessing. I needed to read only a few sentences to know this book was wonderful, and meant for me. Congalton had the courage to share his pain, reactions most of us would be embarrassed to reveal except to those we are closest to--and maybe not even them. This is the first book I've seen to share what is genuinely helpful to those grieving the loss of canine and feline family members and those who want to help them. He addresses the insensitivity and the ignorance of bosses and co-workers and others and even--most hurtful--of close family members.

"Just do what you need to do," someone close to me advised during the earlier days of my loss. Congalton takes us through his early days and nights and beyond, revealing the thoughts and emotions he (and wife Charlotte) experienced along the way, including lessons from "Pet Grief 101" learned the hard way, like "stay away from people who don't understand, even if it's family." He eloquently describes the standing room only memorial service held for his five little ones lost in the pre-holiday fire. Professional advice is not the primary role of this book--neither is it lacking as David reports on the radio show he did with some mental health experts who compassionately discussed pet loss when he returned to work. Interwoven among David's primary story of trauma and loss and new beginnings are reprints of articles describing his life of joy with his animal companions. It is just the right mix.


A Moving Tribute   June 27, 2000
 9 out of 10 found this review helpful

Three Cats, Two Dogs is a beautifully written and moving book. David Congalton powerfully recounts the experience of losing his pets, and of how he moved through grief and recovery into new pet ownership. Congalton is a wonderful story teller. With clear, vivid prose, he describes his five wonderful companions and their tragic loss. The book is never maudlin or over-sentimental: the author confronts the emotional devastation of multiple pet loss with a clear eye and great wisdom. This isn't just a book about a sad event--it's about how we all learn to cope with death, and how we can take the loss of loved ones and grow to even greater love and understanding.

If you've ever lost a pet, read this book. If you've ever loved an animal, read this book. It will heal your soul, and bring you deeper understanding of the vital place of companion animals in our lives.


A must-read...   June 22, 2000
 5 out of 5 found this review helpful

This book is a must read for those whose lives and/or work revolve around companion animals. As an Animal Control Officer I am often surrounded by the grief of pet lovers over the loss of there animal companions. Dave gives tremendous insight into just how strong and powerful the human-animal bond can become, and gives much needed validation to a form of grief which is unfortunately much too often associated with the "crazy-old-lady down the street with 50 cats." Through very personal stories and past newspaper columns, the author allows you to inhabit his grief, along with the steps needed to reach recovery.