cover image Do Animals Have Souls? A Pet Lover's Guide to Spirituality

Do Animals Have Souls? A Pet Lover's Guide to Spirituality

Ronald Isaacs. KTAV Publishing, $16.95 trade paperback (130p) ISBN 978-1-60280-269-8

Well-researched and informative, this concise volume on animals will settle any concerns or inquiries a Jewish pet owner may have. Isaacs (Kosher Living: It's More than Just the Food), a much published congregational rabbi, touches upon all aspects of animal life and behavior, including their status in Judaism and their relationship with humanity. There is a chapter dedicated to animal quotes and organizations, but the majority of his work answers questions posed to him over the years by his congregants. The queries cover a broad spectrum, ranging from "Does Judaism have any mythical animals in its tradition?" to "Isn't the slaughtering of an animal for food considered cruelty to animals?" to "Can I sit shiva for my pet?" The rabbi, a pet enthusiast with his own brood, is clear in distinguishing between humans and animals, urging readers never to blur that sacred line. This honest and clear compilation will serve as a ready handbook for pet lovers with questions. (Oct.)