The book is laid out as if all the events occurred in one day. The chapters are marked with timestamps in addition to the topic being covered. Within each chapter is the story of an animal that has come to visit Dr. Nick Trout. He tells many other stories within each chapter, covering his entire life with animals, related to each particular visit. The layout is fluid and an absolute breeze to read, considering the amount of information.

The stories are touching, he really manages to humanize the profession. He shows the ugly side people assume vets have, a money grubbing advancement stance to the profession. He also discredits that claim, stating his case and showing some excellent examples.

Dr. Trout also shows the bond between a person and their pet. He understand that bond better than most people and his novel shows how he has worked his entire life to understand and honor that bond.

He also shows the complexity of dealing with many species, from box turtles to persians. He jokes that at least human doctors only have to learn one species anatomy. He adds validity to the career of a Veterinarian by exposing the complexity of the profession.

The stories are downright charming, at times tragic. Most of us have a pet and can identify with the relationships featured in this novel. A must for pet lovers and non-fiction lovers alike.