OAA Book of the Month - Animals Make Us Human: Creating the Best Life for Animals
By Erin Lawson, Operations Director
This month, Ohio Animal Advocates is highlighting a book that is perfect to acknowledge Wellness Month which is observed every August. Wellness is important for all creatures, and author Temple Grandin delves into this and more in Animals Make Us Human: Creating the Best Life for Animals. This book is written for high school/college readers and older as it deals with more complex and potentially heavy topics.
Animals Make Us Human explores how we can give all animals - from pets to zoo animals, farm animals to wildlife - the best lives possible. This book teaches us humans to challenge our perceptions and assumptions and listen to the animal we are observing. Animals, like humans, are emotionally complex creatures and have certain needs to live their best lives; Grandin draws on years of research, experimentation, and experience to explore how we can better understand those needs and help provide animals with the lives they deserve.
Animals Make Us Human is a great reminder that one of the most important things we can do for animals is to take the time to understand them, and to remember that what makes us feel good or comfortable may not always be what is best for them.
Why we love it
OAA particularly loves that this book actively asks us to challenge our assumptions in the name of increasing wellness across all species. The insights of Animals Make Us Human teach us that just because we think we know what might be best, we need to listen to the needs of others to help them live their best lives – on their terms, not ours. Whether you have a dog that you have to leave at home during the day, work with farm animals, care for wildlife, or are a zookeeper trying to determine what is ailing your lioness, this book has something for everyone.
How you can help animals
1. At OAA, we believe that being an advocate for animals means continuing to learn, ask questions, and challenge the ways we think about animals and how to give them the best lives possible. Does this sound like you? We’d love to have you join our team of dedicated volunteers and help protect all animals in the state of Ohio.
2. Share this book recommendation with friends!
3. Subscribe to our e-newsletter to receive animal welfare related news and resources in Ohio straight to your inbox.
