I was so disappointed in this book. I appreciate the emphasis on humans and their dogs, but many of the author's opinions of animal rescue organizations were close-minded and maybe even ignorant. I've worked in animal welfare and was really hoping for good things in this book.

While the author began by wanting to rescue the dogs she saw running around the streets. Then she became familiar with many of the homeless people in her immediate area and her focus switched to keeping the people and the dogs they love together.

I don't agree that a dog is better off with someone who loves them but can't care for them. Ms. Mithers paid to have a dog vaccinated and neutered, only to have them run into the street and get killed because the owner didn't have them leashed. I know that people need someone to love and someone to love them, but sometimes that love is not enough.

Ms. Mithers must have a lot of disposable income to care for all of the animals and people. She doesn't speak to that, but it's an expensive hobby. This is also a classic case of white savior syndrome, which is always icky.

My thanks to NetGalley and Catapult, Counterpoint Press, and Soft Skull Press for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This is an eye-opening must-read for anyone who cares about animals in the US. The story-telling and structure of this book make it an easy, conversational read. Rethinking Rescue focuses on Lori Weise, the founder of Downtown Dog Rescue. It uses Lori's story as a way of highlighting the problems and possibilities of caring for and rescuing pets (especially dogs) in need. I really hope that this will be widely read in by those who work and volunteer in animal welfare. Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy in return for my honest opinion.