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3,000 miles. 25 rescue dogs. 3 RVs. Believe it or not, this book by David Rosenfelt is NOT a fiction tale. He and his wife, along with a few volunteers embarked on this journey across the country to relocate from California to Maine. If this sounds like a ridiculously challenging yet hilariously entertaining adventure, you would be right. Here is my Dogtripping book review.
Dogtripping Book Summary
Full title: Dogtripping: 25 Rescues, 11 Volunteers, and 3 RVs on Our Canine Cross-Country Adventure
“Dogtripping” by David Rosenfelt is a humorous and heartwarming memoir that chronicles the Rosenfelt’s cross-country adventure with 25 rescue dogs. Rosenfelt, a crime novelist and dog lover, along with his wife, Debbie, decided to relocate from Southern California to Maine. Instead of leaving their beloved rescue dogs behind, they embarked on an epic road trip. They journeyed over 3,000 miles in a caravan of three RVs, filled with a pack of dogs and a few volunteers. The book details the journey itself, but also reflects on the many (and I mean MANY) dogs they’ve rescued and cared for over the years.
The book, published in 2013, is a blend of funny anecdotes, logistical challenges, and touching moments of companionship. Rosenfelt recounts how he and his wife started their dog rescue foundation and the ups and downs of managing so many pets. Golden Retrievers are their specialty.
At its heart, “Dogtripping” is both a travel memoir and a love letter to dogs, filled with Rosenfelt’s wit and affection for animals.
Who is David Rosenfelt?
David Rosenfelt is an American author best known for his mystery novels and his love for dogs, which feature prominently in his writing. He gained popularity for his Andy Carpenter mystery series. The series stars a witty defense lawyer with a passion for dogs. Rosenfelt’s books often combine legal intrigue with humor and heartwarming moments, particularly around his lead character’s relationship with his pet golden retriever.
Before becoming a full-time novelist, Rosenfelt had a career in the movie industry, working as the marketing president for TriStar Pictures. However, his passion for writing and rescuing dogs led him to switch careers. In addition to his fiction, Rosenfelt is deeply involved in dog rescue efforts, co-founding the Tara Foundation with his wife, which has found homes for thousands of dogs.
Known for his humor, warmth, and engaging storytelling, Rosenfelt has built a loyal readership through his unique blend of crime, humor, and heart. And he really likes dogs. Here’s some evidence via book covers from his website:
Find David Rosenfelt here:
David Rosenfelt | The Official Site of Author David Rosenfelt
Now onto the rating! My “Dogtripping” book review:
My innovative system for rating humor books is explained here
Wholesomeness Score: 4/5
Couple dedicates their lives to rescuing Golden Retrievers (and other dogs.) What is more wholesome than that? A few mild swears and lots of talk about dog poop and pee. Would be a 5/5 but that much dog poop is not very clean and wholesome.
Hilarity Score: 2.5/5
The thought of traveling with 25 dogs across country is hilarious. I found Rosenfelt’s recounting of the journey more enthralling than funny. But the story provided chuckles throughout.
Overall Book Awesomeness Score: 4/5
Dogtripping was an informative and entertaining experience. It was funny, but I was more inspired by the inherent “call-to-action” than entertained by the ridiculous premise. It makes me want to rescue/adopt some dogs! Please don’t tell my wife I had that thought. She would make me follow through.
Things I liked:
- Dogs
- RVs
- Dogs in RVs
- inspiring and enlightening tales of caring for animals in dire situations
Things I didn’t like:
- listening to the audio book with my wife, who can’t handle a story where any animal dies
- the thought of all that dog poop. Yikes.
Conclusion: Final Thoughts on “Dogtripping”
This was a fun and heartwarming book – tailor made for audiobook consumption on a long drive! As I drove across Iowa (well not so much “across” Iowa, just through part of Iowa. Never mind, that detail isn’t important – sort of like Iowa in general. WOOAH, snap!), I imagined traveling with 25 furry friends on our way to a new home. David Rosenfelt is a master storyteller and inspiring advocate for animal rescue.
Just so you know – I could get an affiliate commission if you link from my site and buy a product. Hopefully, I’ll accumulate enough affiliate commission to buy myself a coffee someday! Not Starbucks or anything like that. But maybe a plain small coffee from a gas station on the edge of town.