THE MASSIVE NO.1 SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER.
A powerful, heart-warming and inspiring memoir from the UK’s most famous and beloved vet, Professor Noel Fitzpatrick – star of the Channel 4 series The Supervet.
Growing up on the family farm in Ballyfin, Ireland, Noel’s childhood was spent tending to the cattle and sheep, the hay and silage, the tractors and land, his beloved sheepdog Pirate providing solace from the bullies that plagued him at school. It was this bond with Pirate, and a fateful night spent desperately trying to save a newborn lamb, that inspired Noel to enter the world of veterinary science – and set him on the path to becoming The Supervet.
Now, in this long-awaited memoir, Noel recounts this often-surprising journey that sees him leaving behind a farm animal practice in rural Ireland to set up Fitzpatrick Referrals in Surrey, one of the most advanced small animal specialist centres in the world. We meet the animals that paved the way, from calving cows and corralling bullocks to talkative parrots and bionic cats and dogs.
Noel has listened to the many lessons that the animals in his care have taught him, and especially the times he has shared with his beloved Keira, the scruffy Border Terrier who has been by Noel’s side as he’s dealt with the unbelievable highs and crushing lows of his extraordinary career.
As heart-warming and life-affirming as the TV show with which he made his name, Listening to the Animals is a story of love, hope and compassion, and about rejoicing in the bond between humans and animals that makes us the very best we can be.
**Delve into the Extraordinary World of The Supervet: A Heartwarming Memoir by Professor Noel Fitzpatrick** Prepare to be captivated by *Listening to the Animals: Becoming The Supervet*, the compelling and deeply moving memoir from Professor Noel Fitzpatrick, the renowned veterinary surgeon and star of Channel 4's beloved series, *The Supervet*. This is more than just a celebrity memoir; it's an intimate and honest exploration of a life dedicated to animal welfare, driven by compassion, and marked by both groundbreaking innovation and profound personal challenges. From his humble beginnings on a family farm in Ballyfin, Ireland, Fitzpatrick paints a vivid picture of his childhood. Growing up amidst the rhythms of rural life, he found solace and unwavering companionship in his loyal sheepdog, Pirate. This profound bond, coupled with a pivotal experience attempting to save a newborn lamb, ignited a passion that would define his life's purpose: to alleviate animal suffering and push the boundaries of veterinary medicine. *Listening to the Animals* chronicles Fitzpatrick's remarkable journey, tracing his path from a traditional farm animal practice in the Irish countryside to the establishment of Fitzpatrick Referrals in Surrey a world-leading, state-of-the-art small animal specialist centre. He shares the stories of the countless animals who have shaped his career, from the everyday challenges of calving cows and handling bullocks to the extraordinary cases of talkative parrots and pioneering bionic surgeries on cats and dogs. These aren't just patient stories; they are powerful testaments to the resilience of the animal spirit and the unwavering dedication of those who dedicate their lives to healing. Beyond the medical marvels, Fitzpatrick opens up about the emotional toll of his demanding profession. He candidly discusses the ethical dilemmas he faces, the heart-wrenching decisions he must make, and the profound grief he experiences when he is unable to save a beloved animal. He reveals the personal sacrifices required to maintain such a high level of care and innovation. The book delves into the personal challenges of a relentless pursuit of veterinary advancement, often highlighting the emotional weight that comes with innovative, and sometimes risky, procedures. Central to the narrative is his unwavering bond with Keira, his scruffy Border Terrier, who has been his constant companion and confidante through the highs and lows of his extraordinary career. Keira's presence serves as a constant reminder of the unconditional love and unwavering loyalty that animals offer, and the profound impact they have on our lives. Their relationship is a touching thread woven throughout the book, offering moments of levity and profound connection. *Listening to the Animals* isn't simply a veterinarian's biography; it's a celebration of the human-animal bond. Fitzpatrick eloquently articulates the lessons he has learned from the animals in his care, emphasizing the importance of empathy, compassion, and respect for all living creatures. This is a story about the power of love, the pursuit of excellence, and the unwavering belief that animals make us better humans. Readers will be moved by the book's emotional depth, inspired by Fitzpatrick's unwavering commitment, and left with a renewed appreciation for the animals who enrich our lives. Perfect for fans of *The Supervet*, animal lovers, and anyone seeking an inspiring and heartwarming read. Discover the man behind the white coat and the extraordinary world where cutting-edge medicine meets boundless compassion.
