Ever since a childhood trauma involving a sobbing fit in the lobby of the Malco Theatre after viewing the climactic scene of Old Yeller [2], I have never been able to finish a book or a movie that featured the death of a beloved pet. Many times, I have been lulled into a false feeling of security, only to be mentally cast back to that empty theatre lobby. I don't want to produce any major spoilers, but who remembers The Yearling [3]? What about Where the Red Fern Grows [4]? No, thank you. I'll sacrifice substance for peace of mind. If you share my strange phobia, here are a few book and movie titles that are enjoyable and safe for your consumption. If you have other suggestions, please leave them in the comments.
- Dog on it: a Chet and Bernie Mystery [5] by Spencer Quinn - Chet, the loyal dog to Bernie's private investigator, narrates this amusing mystery and helps provide Bernie with many clues a human would miss.
- Bolt [6] - This charming Disney movie features a dog who plays a Superhero on TV and isn't aware that he lives on a film set. When he gets lost, it takes a not-so-friendly cat to help him learn the ways of the world.
- Anyone But You [7] by Jennifer Crusie - The true star of this romance by popular author Crusie is Fred, the elderly Basset hound that recently divorced heroine Nina Askew can't resist adopting.
- Best in Show [8] - The dogs in this film are certainly upstaged by their crazy owners, but this hilarious comedy is a favorite of many dog lovers.
- Play Dead [9] by David Rosenfelt - New Jersey defense attorney and dog rescuer Andy Carpenter saves a dog on Death Row and uses him as a key witness in a murder case.
