A cute and educational children's book that teaches valuable lessons about responsible pet ownership in a fun and engaging way. Through the adventures of Lora and CJ, young readers learn the importance of thorough research and preparation before bringing a new dog into their home. The book covers various aspects of puppy care, from grooming and feeding to training and socialization, all while emphasizing the love and dedication required to raise a happy and healthy dog. As a parent, I appreciated the educational content woven into the story, making it both enjoyable and informative for children of all ages.

This book is such a good idea, literally two children and a presentation to their parents about how they will look after, support and grow puppies if they can adopt them! The advice is all sensible and the book’s last section has more adult focused advice on how to work with children and dogs when the family is ready to get one.
The book is all is rhyme and whilst this is a lovely idea, this means that the paragraphs end up in odd syntax and it doesn’t quite work for me when reading it to my little one. The language and framing is a bit too adult and sounds a bit clunky. The images are quite angular and it would have been nice to have them more vibrant and a little bit friendlier.

A great book to talk about all the responsibilities of owning an animal in a way that flows easily and quickly but still gives all the relevant knowledge.

Calling all animal lovers! Get ready to unleash your inner pet expert with Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities—a pawsitively delightful children's book that'll teach you everything you need to know about caring for your furry friends! Join Lora and CJ on a tail-wagging adventure as they embark on a journey of responsible pet ownership, from grooming and feeding to training and socialization. With its catchy rhymes and adorable illustrations, this book isn't just a joy to read—it's also chock-full of important lessons about empathy, responsibility, and the true meaning of pet ownership. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your copy today and get ready to wag your tails as you learn and play with Lora and CJ!

Thank you Raise the Woof Press for allowing me to read and review Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities
A Kid's Guide to Welcoming a New Dog on NetGalley.

Published: 03/15/24

Stars: 2

The sketchy illustrations are eye pleasing. I flipped through the book after reading just to look at each picture.

The authors concept appealed to me; however their execution is lacking. The punctuation is counterproductive to being responsible, educational and a teaching resource. It was impossible to find a rhythm. Periods and proper capitalization are not underrated. The target audience could have helped with the editing.

The kids finding all this information without parental guidance was unrealistic. What do you say to your child? Do as I say?

What bothered me most are the pages after the story. These are resources and the authors other works being promoted, as well helpful hints for parents. These appear to have been edited.

Given the topic and nature of shelters and strays, I would recommend looking elsewhere for teaching materials.

Whether you're an aspiring dog owner or experienced one, this would make a great addition to your bookshelf. The info within is comprehensive and vital to a good relationship and bond with your dog. Even more fun, it's written in a rhyming lyrical style. As has become my habit with such books, I opted to read it aloud to my own dog and as I fell right into the rhythm she was attentive and enjoyed the lyrical tone of the story. The illustrations are realistic in manner, showing each human and a diverse range of dogs as unique characters. I'm betting they are based on real people and dogs.

As for the information shared, I won't try to detail it but will say it's presented in an easy manner (that rhymes--grin). Without being nit-picky detailed, it does seem to focus on a wonderful system of preparing to bring your puppy/dog home and not only how to do that preparation but things to do afterward while explaining the why briefly. For instance, rather than wait until a vet visit is needed, take your new furry friend for a get-acquainted visit so they don't associate the vet with bad things. Responsible ownership is focused on throughout, from being prepared with all the "doggie stuff" one needs before the dog comes home with you as is the importance of routine and making safety a priority. I rolled my eyes at my listening dog when it talked about a car harness, though, recalling how many styles I had to go through before finding one my escape artist corgi mix didn't somehow wiggle out of while we were moving. And....so much more. All fairly obvious things to experienced dog owners but a reminder never hurts and it may be brand new insight for your wannabe dog owners.

Inspired by the authors' own dogs, named appropriately enough Porter and Midge, they include a brief but well-written note to parents at the end. It succinctly summarizes the material covered. Bottom line, I thoroughly enjoyed and recommend this book. Now, I think I'd better go check Daisy's water bowl....and just maybe find her a treat. Grin. Thanks #NetGalley and #RaiseTheWoofPress for compiling this lovely guide to being a dog person. Nicely done and Daisy (whose water bowl is sparkling fresh now) gives it four paws up and a tail wag.

This is a cute book in verse about a couple of kids who want a pet. To prove they are ready, Porter and Midge learn about what a pet needs and how best to care for their own furry friend. They make quite a good case that they are ready! Thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this