You may recall the story of Binti, the gorilla in the Chicago Zoo who made headlines around the world. When a boy fell into the pit surrounding the primate exhibit, Binti cradled him in her arms, comforted him, and then gently laid him at a door where attendants could retrieve him. Binti"s kindness was just one instance of a common trait among animals, especially our domesticated friends. Consider these other examples from The Compassion of Animals: • A dog—terrified of explosives—grabs a hissing firecracker in his mouth to protect a toddler • A cat gets help for patients suffering seizures behind closed doors • A horse whinnies and runs toward passing cars to attract help for an elderly woman lying in a snowy ditchThese and many more intriguing, true tales make clear the depths of love and compassion that animals feel. This absorbing, inspiring book will lead you to a life-altering conclusion: We humans are deeply indebted to the rest of the animal kingdom. It is a debt that can only be repaid with our own love and deepest respect. Author and animal lover Kristin von Kreisler makes a powerful contribution toward that repayment here, changing our perception of the animals around us. "Through dozens of inspiring true stories, Kristin von Kreisler makes a strong case for a "controversial premise"—that animals demonstrate genuine acts of compassion toward others every day. This book will remove the "controversial" from the premise!" —Paul G. Irwin, president of The Humane Society of the United States "Ms. von Kreisler is fearless, intriguing, and herself compassionate. Highly recommended." —Roger A. Caras, president of the ASPCA "It always gives those of us in the animal protection community great hope when we come across books like The Compassion of Animals. [These] warm and illuminating stories will inspire us to continue forward in our efforts to end their abuse and suffering." —Elliot M. Katz, D.V.M., president and founder of In Defense of Animals "The Compassion of Animals celebrates the loyalty, intelligence, and bravery of some very special creatures! These brave animals who often risk their own lives to save another prove that animals are capable of amazing acts of heroism." —Robert F.X. Hart, executive director of the American Humane Association