Vivian Zottola, MSc
Author and Human-Dog Relationship Therapist
Walking two worlds: Exploring the heart and science behind our journey with dogs
Coming 2025
New Book!
Praise for Cammie Queen Of The Neighborhood
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“In Cammie Queen of the Neighborhood Vivian tells a story about a wonder-filled dog and her human family, helping readers reflect on their own canine companions and the positive impacts they have had on their families—impacts that emerge not only through their positive spirits but also through the ways we learn to ‘read’ their communication, leading to deeper understanding and care. Ultimately, this reflection brings a sense of gratitude when the inevitable happens and our beloved canine pets are no longer physically with us."
— Dr. George Scarlett, Senior Lecturer
Tufts University, School of Arts and Sciences
Eliot-Pearson Department of Child Study & Human Development​​
Join a brave pup's city adventure, finding love and confidence in her new home.
​The book is for people young and older dealing with change and loss.
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Cammie, Queen Of The Neighborhood Goes To The Moon is a charming tale of a dog named Cammie who ventures from a puppy farm into a bustling city. Initially, the city's hustle and bustle overwhelms Cammie. However, with time, patience, and abundant affection, she begins to feel at home.
A quirky character in the story is the Fairy Dog Trainer and her animal friends, who becomes Cammie's guide, teaching her family the secret lessons of understanding and communicating with their new canine member. With her human family's guidance gradually, Cammie gains confidence, makes new friends, and leaves a trail of joy wherever she roams. The moon plays a significant role in the narrative. For Cammie and her family, it's more than a celestial body; it's a symbol of peace and beauty. The family shares special moon-gazing moments, creating a lunar bond of love that transcends time and space. As Cammie matures, she reassures her family that they can always feel her presence by looking at the moon.
This heartwarming book is a beautiful exploration of adaptation and love, depicting the deep bond between a pet and their family. It provides comfort and understanding, especially to young readers grappling with changes or losses in their own lives.
Cammie, Queen Of The Neighborhood Goes To The Moon is not just a book, but an emotional journey that can help children understand complex emotions and navigate through life’s changes. It is also an excellent resource for those who enjoy stories about family relationships and the emotional bonds with pets.
In the world of children's literature, this book stands out as a tender, insightful, and thoughtfully crafted tale that captures the essence of love, change, and resilience. It's more than a story; it's an experience that fosters empathy and nurtures the heart, making it a must-read for every young reader.
About
Now Available
Being A (Good) Dog In
The Human's World
"Being A (Good) Dog In The Human's World" is Vivian's first book, offering a testament to the potential for improving our relationships with our beloved dogs. In it, she shares stories from her work with clients and their dogs, shedding light on the challenges both dogs and their people face in meeting expectations. This book provides practical guidance and addresses underlying systemic issues that can strain the bond between humans and their pets. Through these insights and advice, Vivian aims to present a fresh perspective and unlock the potential for meaningful improvements in your relationship with your dog.
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Sold on all your favorite online and in store retail bookstores!
Foreword by Dr. Nicholas Dodman
Kind Words From Dr. Marc Bekoff​ -author of Canine Confidential and Dogs Demystified.
All too often, people end their relationships with dog friends before they can truly flourish. I am here to let people know there are solutions—simple ways that will work to improve our relationships.
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Having the courage to reflect upon our own behaviors is the place to start and only if we are willing to be open to learning will we be able to help our animal friends. The profound trust between animals and people is a powerful vibration of joy and grounding we all need more of. I feel blessed to be able to write and share what I know with others in need.​
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As a certified canine behavior consultant, arriving at solutions is not always straightforward, and the road is sometimes bumpy. However, bringing issues to light is the first step. Over the years, the engagements, friendships, and collaborations I've formed on every journey have been heartwarming. My experiences have helped shape me into a better person to my family, friends, clients, and of course, dogs.
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Through my work and books, I am excited to continue supporting people with a better understanding of their beloved animal companions and to inspire more of this joy and love in our world. I hope you enjoy my books as much as I've enjoyed creating them.
"That we experience the world from a human perspective doesn’t mean that we can’t work to see things from the perspective of non-humans, and I’ll argue that empathy is a skill that helps us in doing this." —Lori Gruen
This website is a resource I offer to share more about our relationship with dogs. Here you'll find information about my book Being A (good) Dog In The Human's World, research in dog behavior, free animated videos to help reduce the risk of bites to children, and links to written articles and my podcast. Warm woofs and wiggles to you all!
Vivian