Sharon Sakson's very enjoyable and interesting Paws and Effect: The Healing Power of Dogs weaves scientific information with narratives of different people whose dogs have made a difference to their lives - and their health.

We are all familiar with guide dogs, but this book reveals many other ways in which dogs can help those with disabilities or other problems - canines that can detect the onset of fits, sniff out cancer, provide warmth to those with specific pains, and more.

The individual stories of owners and their dogs in Paws and Effect engage the reader and impart the flavor of the relationship between pet and owner. My only criticism: the book left me feeling that every dog probably possesses some fantastic healing benefit, and when I look at my aged and naughty Weimaraner sprawled out on the bed, I just can't see it in her. But perhaps she is just waiting for the opportunity to show her special talent...