A provocative look at the ‘cult of pedigree’ and an entertaining social history of purebred dogs—“a must-read for all dog lovers” (Booklist). So-called “purebreds” are the mainstay of the dog industry. Expert Michael Brandow argues these aren’t time-honored traditions—but rather commercial inventions of the 19th century that were marketed as status symbols to a growing middle class. Combining social history and consumer studies with sharp commentary, this reveals the sordid history of the dog industry and shows how our brand-name pets pay the price with devastatingly poor health. It includes chapters devoted to popular breeds such as: • Golden Retrievers • Boston Terriers • English Bulldogs • Labrador Retrievers An essential read for animal lovers and animal rights activists everywhere, A Matter of Breeding is a fresh take on the history pedigree dogs and encourages us to love all our furry friends—no matter the coat color or price tag. “If you’re considering welcoming a dog (or two) into your family, read Michael Brandow’s fascinating and eye-opening book before visiting a pet store or breeder.” —Betsy Banks Saul, founder of Petfinder.com

October, 1901. Lawyer and private enquiries agent Karl Werthen accepts an assignment to protect the famous Irish writer Bram Stoker while on a speaking tour of Vienna. Meanwhile, his colleague, renowned criminologist Dr Hanns Gross has been called away to advise on a bizarre series of murders near his hometown of Graz, in the Austrian province of Styria. Three women have been killed with strange mutilations and scarring patterns left on their bodies. The third, most recent victim has had her unborn baby cut out of her womb. Clues have been left at each scene; clues that have been clearly mentioned in Gross’s handbook for magistrates, Criminal Investigation. A coincidence? Dr Gross thinks not. Meanwhile, back in Vienna, Werthen’s wife Berthe is investigating what seems to be a fraudulent breeding scheme involving the prized Lipizzaner horses. Could the two investigations possibly be connected? Matters become complicated with Werthen and Stoker’s arrival in Graz. For, having read wild newspaper accounts of vampire killings, the Dracula author insists they investigate.

The provocative look at the 'cult of pedigree' and an eye-opening and entertaining social history of purebred dogs.

From establishing a cattery to caring for the kittens to legal & ethical issues, here is everything a cat breeder needs to know.

Here, at last, is a revised and expanded edition of this award-winning breeders' reference. Successful Dog Breeding is a book for the first-time breeder and longtime fancier alike, no matter what the breed. Down-to-earth practical information is given to cover virtually every contingency associated with breeding and whelping. Presented in a humorous format, even the most serious information is made easier to understand. Chris Walkowicz and Bonnie Wilcox, D.V.M., are both veteran dog fanciers who bring a wealth of personal and professional experience to every chapter. Covering topics from planning the breeding (should I or shouldn't I?) to problems encountered in breeding, delivery and neonatal care, the authors offer viable solutions to innumerable problems, whether old or new. Two highly extensive appendices on breed idiosyncrasies, compiled from correspondence with longtime fanciers as well as from research from veterinary journals, complete the abundance of information offered here. All of this is complemented by original drawings by the well-known canine artist Mary Jung. A Howell Dog Book of Distinction

Society rapidly gives way to terror when women start giving birth to carnivorous spider-like creatures.

Bred by the Billionaire Adora Garcia isn't interested in being the breeding vessel for some arrogant billionaire. She has plans for her life and they don't include being knocked up by a man over twice her age. Her single mother cleans Tobias Bennett's penthouse suite, so when Adora refuses his indecent proposal, he threatens to find a new maid. Tobias needs an heir, but he's not ready to settle down, and certainly not interested in love. He doesn't have a plan until he sees the curvy brunette standing in his condo. Everything he wants, he gets, and he wants Adora. What he doesn't expect is the rush of possessiveness that takes him by storm. Will Adora give up her virginity to the ruthless businessman? Can Tobias open his heart after keeping it closed off for decades? Bred by the Bushmen After nearly ending her own life, Opal books a soul-searching Alaskan wilderness tour. She's used to loneliness and rejection, but needs to learn how to love herself. When things go horribly wrong on the tour, she finds herself cold, alone, and facing certain death. Caleb and Damon have the perfect life. They live off the grid, far from society and its destructive influences. But it doesn't take long for the White brothers to realize what's missing. They need a woman, and crave a family of their own. When their dog leads them to a lost hiker in the woods, they swear she was dropped straight from heaven. It will take a lot of hard convincing for the bushmen to prove life at their cabin is better than what Opal left behind in the city. And they won't take no for an answer. They plan on keeping Opal, loving her, and filling her with their baby.