Customer Reviews

The Dog Lover's Companion to New England: The Inside Scoop on Where to Take Your Dog (Dog Lover's Companion Guides)

5 star:		(0)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

Reading these positive reviews I almost hesitated to post a rather negative review; however, I feel it important to point out some problems with this particular volume.

My work keeps me on the road for much of the year and my dog often accompanies me on these trips. Locating dog friendly properties is sometimes a challenge so I was pleased when a friend gave me this book as a gift. Unfortunately, I found the book rife with errors, misinformation and glaring omissions. As the authors correctly point out, it is vital to verify the rules for an individual property prior to leaving home in order to avoid disappointment and inconvenience. Properties change hands; situations alter and rules change without warning. While reading through the book I kept returning to verify the publication date since so many entries were very out of date. This particular issue was published in 2004. In a number of places throughout the book recommendations for lodging and food include properties that closed as much as seven or eight years prior to the publication date. In New England there are several Inns that cater to dog owners offering special programs and amenities for dog owners and their pets. The properties that I am aware of have all been in operation for at least eight to ten years. Yet no mention is made of them. Odd.

I think the bottom line of this book and on any similar books is that the dog owner who chooses to travel with his/her pet, must do their own research prior to hitting the road and must verify all information listed on any web site or in any book. Perhaps it is simply impossible to write a book such as this and hope that any of the information will remain current upon publication.

I was expecting more. I was hoping for more places to stay overnight with a large dog. I have a golden retriever and wanted to include him in more of our activities, but this listed stuff that was out of our way or less quality than places I already know. Some new places to try, but I wouldn't recommend anyone to buy this book. It is a nice idea, but nothing new.