LORETTA ISAAC Co-founder of Home Fur Good Animal Rescue and Placement R E C O M M E N D S : “A Cat to Die For” BY MARIA GRAZIA SWAN H E R T A K E “The Furry Friends Foundation — the no-kill operation that rescues cats and dogs that’s described in the book — is based on our own shelter, Home Fur Good, where the author is a volunteer. As a cat and dog lover, I enjoy discovering fiction where pets play a leading role. This book delivered with a fun plot, characters that I’d like to learn more about, and two male calicos that are so rare it got my interest up. The light romance didn’t hurt either.” MARY CLARK Executive director of Whispering Hope Ranch Foundation R E C O M M E N D S : “Riding Home: The Power of Horses to Heal” BY TIM HAYES H E R T A K E “At Whispering Hope Ranch, I am in the privileged position to witness the healing that takes place through the human- animal bond. We know of the measurable, scientifically documented benefits for those with compromised health and the accelerated human healing — physical, mental and emotional — that takes place when humans interact with animals. ‘Riding Home’ scientifically and experientially explains why horses have the extraordinary ability to transform lives. The author discusses how humans can learn to communicate with horses in their language and describes something we often see — how a horse can become legs for those who are not able to use their own, the joy experienced and sense of confidence gained, which often inspires them to try other things. I highly recommend this book.” What leaders of local pet organizations are reading DANA KLOSE Secretary and event manager at One Love Pit Bull Foundation R E C O M M E N D S : “Atomic Habits” BY JAMES CLEAR H E R T A K E “This book is AMAZING and so valuable to anyone who chooses to read/listen to it. Many topics that are discussed are completely relatable to everyday life. I had many takeaways that I will use to improve my own life, but also so many tools that will help me better serve my clients. James Clear guides you on how to create good habits, break bad ones and get 1 percent better every day. The book will help you break down your habits good and bad and also give you the tools and strategies you need to transform your life. You could be a coach looking to take your team to #1, a company looking to improve performance and employee morale, or an individual who wishes to quit smoking, lose weight, exercise more, reduce stress and achieve success that lasts. No matter what you are looking to improve, this book will not disappoint.” 10 FRONTDOORS MEDIA | APRIL 2019 BOOKMARKED {what are you reading}

JUDITH GARDNER President and CEO of Arizona Animal Welfare League R E C O M M E N D S : “Happy Dog Phoenix — Your Best Friend’s Guide to the Valley” BY JODIE SNYDER H E R T A K E “This book is the ultimate guide for all dog owners in Arizona. It covers topics such as where to take your dog, desert-proofing your dog (think cactus, monsoons and coyotes), traveling to nearby areas with your dog (San Diego, Mexico, Northern Arizona), medical care (with information on Valley Fever), your dog and the law, etc. It also addresses topics you’d never have thought of and covers the unique challenges of dog ownership in the desert. Best of all, all proceeds of the sale of the book, which sells for $14.95, go directly to AAWL. Books can be ordered at HappyDogPhoenix.com .” LEANNA TAYLOR Executive director of The Arizona Pet Project R E C O M M E N D S : “Tattoos on the Heart” BY GREGORY BOYLE H E R T A K E “I happened to be reading this book at a time when The Arizona Pet Project was exploring new programs that prevent pets from entering Valley shelters. At first glance, a book about a gang-intervention organization may not directly correlate to animal welfare, but if you dig a little deeper the parallels are clear. ‘Tattoos on the Heart’ guides readers past judgment of people who may look different from ourselves to a place where we can recognize and celebrate our shared humanity, regardless of background or experience. It teaches us to be less judgmental and how to find real and meaningful solutions to life’s problems, and was the cornerstone upon which our organization’s value system and shelter intervention program was built. You will laugh, you will cry, and you’ll discover a new appreciation for your fellow human.” ELAINE STARKS Executive director of Power Paws Assistance Dogs, Inc. R E C O M M E N D S : “Becoming” BY MICHELLE OBAMA H E R T A K E “‘Becoming’ is a comfortable escape from your challenges. I assumed the role of executive director in December 2017. Reading Michelle Obama’s challenges in life, as a child and then at the highest level, can make us all say quietly to ourselves, ‘We can do this!’ Move doubt aside, be positive and keep smiling.” APRIL 2019 | FRONTDOORS MEDIA 11