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Listening to the Animals: Becoming the Supervet
THE 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.
385 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 18, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 330 reviews
November 12, 2018
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Noel Fitzpatrick is perhaps best known in the UK for his tv programme ‘The Supervet’, which centres around his small animal practice treating exceptionally difficult cases with a certain degree of innovation and passion. His book looks deeper into this passion for his work, as well as expanding on Noel’s life growing up in rural Ireland, and his difficult route to the so called ‘field of dreams’.
I have so much respect of Noel. He has a wonderful work, and life, ethic - believing that you can achieve anything if you work hard enough for it. And he has shown that himself from the large amount of time and effort he’s put into his profession, advancing veterinary medicine to the benefit of thousands of animals.
Reading about Noel’s upbringing on a rural Irish farm, there’s a vulnerability to his writing that makes him instantly endearing. It really feels like he’s writing from the heart and you can feel his passion and warmth. He writes honestly about his struggles with bullies and the isolation he felt, and growing up with the beloved farm dog Pirate, who was his only confidante. At times I was truely brought close to tears.
I particularly enjoyed the later chapters, as we join Noel on his quest to secure his own practice and improve the veterinary medicine specialisms of orthopaedics and neurosurgery. I have a dachshund myself, and I know that in the future we may have back problems in Monty that 10 years ago would have meant he would have been put down. Now, thanks to Noel, there’s a hope within the field that he could undergo procedures that could lead to a long and healthy life. That’s all down to Noel and his absolute belief in what he does. Thank you Noel. If only more people had the compassion you show for our four legged family members.
If anything, I would have liked to have read more tales from the various practices he ‘locumed’ for, as I think he spent a greater amount of time describing his experiences on farm animal cases (which I still really enjoyed - especially the story about the drunk lads and the cow ceasarean!). But, honestly, I really enjoyed this. A must read for any animal lover, told with no end of enthusiasm and love.
Noel Fitzpatrick is perhaps best known in the UK for his tv programme ‘The Supervet’, which centres around his small animal practice treating exceptionally difficult cases with a certain degree of innovation and passion. His book looks deeper into this passion for his work, as well as expanding on Noel’s life growing up in rural Ireland, and his difficult route to the so called ‘field of dreams’.
I have so much respect of Noel. He has a wonderful work, and life, ethic - believing that you can achieve anything if you work hard enough for it. And he has shown that himself from the large amount of time and effort he’s put into his profession, advancing veterinary medicine to the benefit of thousands of animals.
Reading about Noel’s upbringing on a rural Irish farm, there’s a vulnerability to his writing that makes him instantly endearing. It really feels like he’s writing from the heart and you can feel his passion and warmth. He writes honestly about his struggles with bullies and the isolation he felt, and growing up with the beloved farm dog Pirate, who was his only confidante. At times I was truely brought close to tears.
I particularly enjoyed the later chapters, as we join Noel on his quest to secure his own practice and improve the veterinary medicine specialisms of orthopaedics and neurosurgery. I have a dachshund myself, and I know that in the future we may have back problems in Monty that 10 years ago would have meant he would have been put down. Now, thanks to Noel, there’s a hope within the field that he could undergo procedures that could lead to a long and healthy life. That’s all down to Noel and his absolute belief in what he does. Thank you Noel. If only more people had the compassion you show for our four legged family members.
If anything, I would have liked to have read more tales from the various practices he ‘locumed’ for, as I think he spent a greater amount of time describing his experiences on farm animal cases (which I still really enjoyed - especially the story about the drunk lads and the cow ceasarean!). But, honestly, I really enjoyed this. A must read for any animal lover, told with no end of enthusiasm and love.
May 8, 2020
A most interesting, inspiring and heartwarming memoir. Noel Fitzpatrick is a unique and brilliant Irish man. He is a dedicated, selfless and caring veterinary surgeon with a loyal team of other vets and nurses. He has a deeply compassionate love and knowledge of animals and people too. He is especially known for his amazing bionic discoveries which have ultimately saved the lives of very many animals who would otherwise have died, had to be put to sleep or lived their lives out in pain. There is a most popular TV series too. I have watched every programme with a lump in my throat and often a few tears too. The first time I ever heard of him was when some years ago I read a book about a cat named Oscar who lost his front legs, sheared off by a farm machine and the world marvelled at his story when his life was saved by Noel and he continued to live his life with two bionic front legs. It is a privilege to see this gifted, dedicated and brilliant man in action. People will travel many miles and pay a lot of money in the hope that Noel can save their animals when other vets have given up. Indeed many sick animals have been referred to Noel by other vets who have reached their limit in the ability to save sick animals. I highly recommend this book to all animal lovers.
August 15, 2019
A very honest memoir by the famous veterinary surgeon Noel Fitzpatrick, who runs largest orthopaedic and neuro-surgical facility for pet animals here in the UK. On numerous occasions he has performed groundbreaking operations that have moved the frontiers of what is considered possible in animal surgery.
The book starts of with his childhood, which (to me) sounded pretty bleak. A father who drove him to give his all to the family farm, terrible bullying he experienced at school, (which he believes has affected him permanently), and seemingly the only real outlet for a loving relationship at this time was with his father's sheepdog Pirate, whom he used to go and talk to in the barn after school. On several occasions Fitzpatrick insists that his parents loved him and that he had a good home, plus he is quite passionate in stating his love for his parents, but it sounded an incredibly harsh childhood to me. Particularly his relationship with his father.
I don't know whether it was genetic, or via socialization, but Fitzpatrick inherited his father's extraordinary drive and determination, and it has carried him to the very top of his profession. There are various places in the book where he talks about this drive. If there is anyone out there who wonders what it must be like to be utterly obsessed with achieving one's goals in life - well - this is your book. What also comes across however is his deep warmth and affection for people, as well as animals. He gets quite emotional when talking about friends - in a way that is most endearing, and I suspect the people who work in his practise feel highly valued.
Fitzpatrick's greatest passion, besides the hugely challenging work he does at his practice - is to have greater collaboration between veterinary surgeons, human surgeons, bioengineers and scientists - where research and experiences can be shared and swapped to the betterment of all parties. He feels that the current separation between human and animal medical practises is ridiculous, particularly here in the UK. To this end he has created The Humanimal Trust, and a concept he calls "One Medicine", to encourage young vets and doctors to get used to the idea of working more closely together.
Without a doubt he is doing extraordinary work in all sorts of different ways. I truly wish him well.
The book starts of with his childhood, which (to me) sounded pretty bleak. A father who drove him to give his all to the family farm, terrible bullying he experienced at school, (which he believes has affected him permanently), and seemingly the only real outlet for a loving relationship at this time was with his father's sheepdog Pirate, whom he used to go and talk to in the barn after school. On several occasions Fitzpatrick insists that his parents loved him and that he had a good home, plus he is quite passionate in stating his love for his parents, but it sounded an incredibly harsh childhood to me. Particularly his relationship with his father.
I don't know whether it was genetic, or via socialization, but Fitzpatrick inherited his father's extraordinary drive and determination, and it has carried him to the very top of his profession. There are various places in the book where he talks about this drive. If there is anyone out there who wonders what it must be like to be utterly obsessed with achieving one's goals in life - well - this is your book. What also comes across however is his deep warmth and affection for people, as well as animals. He gets quite emotional when talking about friends - in a way that is most endearing, and I suspect the people who work in his practise feel highly valued.
Fitzpatrick's greatest passion, besides the hugely challenging work he does at his practice - is to have greater collaboration between veterinary surgeons, human surgeons, bioengineers and scientists - where research and experiences can be shared and swapped to the betterment of all parties. He feels that the current separation between human and animal medical practises is ridiculous, particularly here in the UK. To this end he has created The Humanimal Trust, and a concept he calls "One Medicine", to encourage young vets and doctors to get used to the idea of working more closely together.
Without a doubt he is doing extraordinary work in all sorts of different ways. I truly wish him well.
February 28, 2019
I have been a huge fan of the TV show The Supervet, so when I discovered there was a book out about Professor Noel Fitzpatrick I knew I had to get a copy and I’m so glad I did.
This is the story of how Noel became a world-renowned Neuro-orthopedic veterinary surgeon. We follow Noel from his childhood years growing up, the family farm in Ireland to his school days where he was bullied which was distressing to read about. Overcoming all of that, he continued with schooling and studying to become the extraordinary and very talented man he is today who has saved so many creatures through his remarkable knowledge and skills. This is one amazing memoir, which I cannot speak highly enough of. I utterly LOVED this book and I have no hesitation in HIGHLY recommending it to anyone who like to read memoirs, non fiction or animal related stories.
This is the story of how Noel became a world-renowned Neuro-orthopedic veterinary surgeon. We follow Noel from his childhood years growing up, the family farm in Ireland to his school days where he was bullied which was distressing to read about. Overcoming all of that, he continued with schooling and studying to become the extraordinary and very talented man he is today who has saved so many creatures through his remarkable knowledge and skills. This is one amazing memoir, which I cannot speak highly enough of. I utterly LOVED this book and I have no hesitation in HIGHLY recommending it to anyone who like to read memoirs, non fiction or animal related stories.
November 1, 2018
I love watching the supervet so much and couldn't wait to read this book. I have never laughed and cried so much at the same time the book is simply brilliant and tells the story of Noel from childhood through to adulthood and how he had to work to become a vet but also shows how he had a hard life with the bullies but how determined he was to get what he wanted. He's an amazing guy and his book is simply brilliant from the first page and lovely to hear of his early life and what he has achieved. It's great to hear about the animals that helped him paved the way for his journey and how he has had highs and lows. Simply fantastic and worth far more than five stars so grateful be wrote this book.
January 19, 2019
I truly enjoy The Supervet, a TV show about love and hope. In Listening to the Animals, Noel takes the reader back to his childhood on a farm in Ireland, where his vet dreams once began. The first 100 pages cover his life on the farm, childhood fantasies and anecdotes that shaped him. Other themes are the prominence of religion in 1970s rural Ireland, childhood bullying and self-doubt. I had mixed feelings about this part of the book - I found some of it interesting and some not. In many ways, Listening to the Animals is an ode to Noel's parents.
Noel gives himself wholeheartedly in this book. We learn about his ambitious journey from taking care of sheep and cows to dogs and cats and the hard work behind. Noel continuously pushes the boundaries for innovative solutions in an evolving field, including custom implants and bionic limbs. He recounts the animals and people he has met along the way and the impact they have had on his life, and the difficult decisions that often have to be made and the ethics behind it.
I took away two key messages - Firstly, work hard and there is no stopping you. However, the flip side in Noel's case has been zero work-life balance and failed relationships. I feel anxious just reading about his hectic lifestyle operating seven days per week, studying, lecturing, setting up a charity and taking part in a TV show. The second key message is that human medicine has a lot to learn from animal medicine and vice versa, sharing knowledge and learning. All in all a good read provoking some insightful discussion around the future of veterinary (and human) medicine.
Noel gives himself wholeheartedly in this book. We learn about his ambitious journey from taking care of sheep and cows to dogs and cats and the hard work behind. Noel continuously pushes the boundaries for innovative solutions in an evolving field, including custom implants and bionic limbs. He recounts the animals and people he has met along the way and the impact they have had on his life, and the difficult decisions that often have to be made and the ethics behind it.
I took away two key messages - Firstly, work hard and there is no stopping you. However, the flip side in Noel's case has been zero work-life balance and failed relationships. I feel anxious just reading about his hectic lifestyle operating seven days per week, studying, lecturing, setting up a charity and taking part in a TV show. The second key message is that human medicine has a lot to learn from animal medicine and vice versa, sharing knowledge and learning. All in all a good read provoking some insightful discussion around the future of veterinary (and human) medicine.
January 12, 2019
That was an interesting book to read. I admire Noel Fitzpatrick and what he does to help animals so reading this was quite an eye-opener as he has had a big struggle in his life to get to where he is today. Some of it was a bit technical but I got through it .
April 19, 2019
If anyone loves dogs and cats, or just animals in general and the revolutionary ways veterinary medicine can now save our beloved pets from things that could have meant disaster years ago, this book is one for you.
Noel Fitzpatrick is best known as ‘The Supervet’ thanks to the programme of the same name on Channel 4 and gives viewers an inside look at his veterinary surgery where he and his team use a range of bionics, engineering and mechanics to create a new life for seriously ill pets.
In his book, Noel Fitzparick details his journey from farmer’s son who struggled at first in school to one of the most famous veterinary surgeons alive today. I loved hearing Noel’s journey from very modest beginnings and seeing how his Irish upbringing really stayed with him throughout his life (even with just still saying ‘Mammy and Daddy’ in adulthood like a true Irish country boy).
The writing in this book felt very authentically like Noel, and anyone who watches the show or who has heard him speak knows that that sounds like. I could hear him in my head as I read the book, and the words felt like him through and through which I appreciated. There were some whacky quirks and stories that Noel shared at several points in the book that really made me laugh (for example scattering piles of Pringles around the room to motivate him to write his lectures quicker for a well-earned snack).
I was lucky enough to also attend Noel’s arena tour when he came to Dublin so parts of the book weren’t new to me because I’d heard him talk about it while on stage but there was a lot more in the book that gave me an even better understanding of everything.
I really enjoyed reading this, and really recommend it for anyone who loves watching The Supervet or just loves books about people who save animals on a daily basis!
Noel Fitzpatrick is best known as ‘The Supervet’ thanks to the programme of the same name on Channel 4 and gives viewers an inside look at his veterinary surgery where he and his team use a range of bionics, engineering and mechanics to create a new life for seriously ill pets.
In his book, Noel Fitzparick details his journey from farmer’s son who struggled at first in school to one of the most famous veterinary surgeons alive today. I loved hearing Noel’s journey from very modest beginnings and seeing how his Irish upbringing really stayed with him throughout his life (even with just still saying ‘Mammy and Daddy’ in adulthood like a true Irish country boy).
The writing in this book felt very authentically like Noel, and anyone who watches the show or who has heard him speak knows that that sounds like. I could hear him in my head as I read the book, and the words felt like him through and through which I appreciated. There were some whacky quirks and stories that Noel shared at several points in the book that really made me laugh (for example scattering piles of Pringles around the room to motivate him to write his lectures quicker for a well-earned snack).
I was lucky enough to also attend Noel’s arena tour when he came to Dublin so parts of the book weren’t new to me because I’d heard him talk about it while on stage but there was a lot more in the book that gave me an even better understanding of everything.
I really enjoyed reading this, and really recommend it for anyone who loves watching The Supervet or just loves books about people who save animals on a daily basis!
January 11, 2019
Such a good book written by such a lovely man!
February 10, 2019
I love his show and I think he is doing wonderful things, so I wanted to read the book.
I found it a very dull read. I'm sorry Noel. It's like he just got away with writing it exactly as he thought it - not edited? I don't know how to explain, but it was boring.
Some kind of cute parts, a good news story as far as where he came from and how he got there. As far as he never really thought himself too brilliant, but he's done brilliant things. He somehow just kept going and going and working and he came good.
I had to make myself finish. I wanted to be with him on his journey, but not based on what I was reading, only based on how I've enjoyed his work via his TV show.
I found it a very dull read. I'm sorry Noel. It's like he just got away with writing it exactly as he thought it - not edited? I don't know how to explain, but it was boring.
Some kind of cute parts, a good news story as far as where he came from and how he got there. As far as he never really thought himself too brilliant, but he's done brilliant things. He somehow just kept going and going and working and he came good.
I had to make myself finish. I wanted to be with him on his journey, but not based on what I was reading, only based on how I've enjoyed his work via his TV show.
July 26, 2019
Just loved this book , the man is wonderful.
I did feel that he found talking about his early life in Ireland, and his romantic attachments, a little awkward. However the chapters on his patients, and the building of his dreamed for practice, were so interesting that I could not put the book down.
The way that Noel is so absorbed in his work, and the way he seemed to find a little difficulty socialising whilst in his youth, made me wonder if he is one of those lovely fascinating people on the autism spectrum.
The book is really worth a read. Top marks Noel.
I did feel that he found talking about his early life in Ireland, and his romantic attachments, a little awkward. However the chapters on his patients, and the building of his dreamed for practice, were so interesting that I could not put the book down.
The way that Noel is so absorbed in his work, and the way he seemed to find a little difficulty socialising whilst in his youth, made me wonder if he is one of those lovely fascinating people on the autism spectrum.
The book is really worth a read. Top marks Noel.
January 13, 2022
Inspiring story and really good read.
January 10, 2019
I really wanted to read and enjoy this book, having been given it as a Christmas present. However I found it rather disappointing, and strangely it read almost like three different books, each third (roughly) is written completely differently and each has its good and bad points.
But before I get on to the actual book, I have to say that I find the author's work, dedication, compassion and obvious intelligence truly inspirational and I love the 'Supervet' TV series which is completely unique and compelling.
But, back to the book, the first section is about Professor Fitzpatricks childhood, school etc. and I actually found this quite depressing to read, as the emphasis was almost completely on the hardships and negatives that he encountered, and although he does in passing mention some happy times, it is almost as though he is embarrassed to have had any pleasurable experiences.
The middle section covers vet school and his early days as a vet, and was for me the most enjoyable part of the book, with some amusing anecdotes to leaven the continuing negativity.
The last part of the book deals with his struggles to get his wonderful current practice set up and also with some very in depth details of his philosophy, aims and the charity he has set up to promote his 'One Medicine' dream. I actually found this provoked a strange mixture of admiration for what he has achieved (and sacrificed) but also quite hard going as it delves into some very deep and important issues, this wasn't helped by the writing which I found quite inaccessible and difficult to understand and certain concepts were repeated almost verbatim several times, maybe this was done deliberately to provide emphasis, but I found it a bit irritating.
So, I shall continue to be in awe of what the author has achieved, and rather sad that he has sacrificed so much to achieve it, but I'm afraid that I won't be reading any more books by him. Sorry.
But before I get on to the actual book, I have to say that I find the author's work, dedication, compassion and obvious intelligence truly inspirational and I love the 'Supervet' TV series which is completely unique and compelling.
But, back to the book, the first section is about Professor Fitzpatricks childhood, school etc. and I actually found this quite depressing to read, as the emphasis was almost completely on the hardships and negatives that he encountered, and although he does in passing mention some happy times, it is almost as though he is embarrassed to have had any pleasurable experiences.
The middle section covers vet school and his early days as a vet, and was for me the most enjoyable part of the book, with some amusing anecdotes to leaven the continuing negativity.
The last part of the book deals with his struggles to get his wonderful current practice set up and also with some very in depth details of his philosophy, aims and the charity he has set up to promote his 'One Medicine' dream. I actually found this provoked a strange mixture of admiration for what he has achieved (and sacrificed) but also quite hard going as it delves into some very deep and important issues, this wasn't helped by the writing which I found quite inaccessible and difficult to understand and certain concepts were repeated almost verbatim several times, maybe this was done deliberately to provide emphasis, but I found it a bit irritating.
So, I shall continue to be in awe of what the author has achieved, and rather sad that he has sacrificed so much to achieve it, but I'm afraid that I won't be reading any more books by him. Sorry.
November 28, 2021
I had no great hopes for this book. Much as I like our local practitioners personally, vets generally hold as much appeal for me as they do to my dogs, together we avoid them as much as possible. I tend to disagree with some veterinary practices and I’ve been fortunate in that my dogs are exceptionally poorly bred which means they have no ‘class’ but are incredibly healthy with no genetic disposition towards illness or disability.
I know of Noel’s skill but have only seen glimpses of his tv programs as I hate to see animals suffer.
The autobiographical half of this book is powerfully written with decent portraits of the people and animals who meant much to the author. Where the book fails for me is the inclusion of far too much technical information as he struggles to improve his surgical skills and raise money for his own business.
Noel is a born story teller where people are concerned but he failed to engage me on the finer points of his profession. There is no doubt, however, that he deserves more recognition for his innovative work on surgical implants for both animals and humans.
I was left with a greater respect for the man but I still won’t be watching Supervet.
I know of Noel’s skill but have only seen glimpses of his tv programs as I hate to see animals suffer.
The autobiographical half of this book is powerfully written with decent portraits of the people and animals who meant much to the author. Where the book fails for me is the inclusion of far too much technical information as he struggles to improve his surgical skills and raise money for his own business.
Noel is a born story teller where people are concerned but he failed to engage me on the finer points of his profession. There is no doubt, however, that he deserves more recognition for his innovative work on surgical implants for both animals and humans.
I was left with a greater respect for the man but I still won’t be watching Supervet.
December 23, 2019
I love The Supervet programme and in this book his absolute passion for and commitment to his "One Medicine" concept really shines through. And his drive is just so impressive. I did enjoy discovering how he got his practice up and running and the hurdles he met along the way.
I would give this 3.5 if I could - the reasons I didn't score higher is that there is a lot of detail on the various surgeries which didn't appeal to me, though I appreciate he is describing innovative approaches. Also, I didn't enjoy the first few chapters of his early life on the farm, just went on too long. It is worth a read though.
I would give this 3.5 if I could - the reasons I didn't score higher is that there is a lot of detail on the various surgeries which didn't appeal to me, though I appreciate he is describing innovative approaches. Also, I didn't enjoy the first few chapters of his early life on the farm, just went on too long. It is worth a read though.
March 11, 2021
This was a book gifted to me and it took me a couple of years to decide to read it. I ended up going with the audio book, narrated by the author. I completely understand why my mother-in-law gave it to me. I love animals. I always have some around me. I wanted to be a vet when I was younger.
Yes, this book is about the journey the author went on from a young boy on a farm to being the ‘Supervet’ and having a state-of-the-art veterinary practice and a TV show, but it is about much more than that. Battling the odds is a major theme throughout the book, whether it is bullying or trying to make progress in medicine and science, making impossible things possible. This is clearly a man who has always worked very hard for what he believed in and his drive has brought him success, but also loss.
The author is clearly a very sensitive, beautiful person and his empathy shone through. However, there are times when I felt the book was a little too personal and emotional and that is unusual since I am a very emotional creature myself. Maybe it is because I am very sensitive myself that I felt uncomfortable at times, maybe it was too close to the bone. Maybe it was his emotional delivery on audio, which felt a little dramatic at times. I am not saying he should have done it differently, just that it did not always work for me.
I expected to love this book more than I did. I definitely thought it was interesting and inspiring, but for some reason I did not end up quite loving it. However, I did like this book and I would recommend it if you are interested in animals and their stories, as well as the life of a vet, or if you need that final push to persevere with something. You could just watch the TV show if you are more interested in the veterinary side rather than his personal story. Some of the animal stories in here were on the TV show.
This is not a book I would have necessarily bought for myself, but I am glad I read it.
Yes, this book is about the journey the author went on from a young boy on a farm to being the ‘Supervet’ and having a state-of-the-art veterinary practice and a TV show, but it is about much more than that. Battling the odds is a major theme throughout the book, whether it is bullying or trying to make progress in medicine and science, making impossible things possible. This is clearly a man who has always worked very hard for what he believed in and his drive has brought him success, but also loss.
The author is clearly a very sensitive, beautiful person and his empathy shone through. However, there are times when I felt the book was a little too personal and emotional and that is unusual since I am a very emotional creature myself. Maybe it is because I am very sensitive myself that I felt uncomfortable at times, maybe it was too close to the bone. Maybe it was his emotional delivery on audio, which felt a little dramatic at times. I am not saying he should have done it differently, just that it did not always work for me.
I expected to love this book more than I did. I definitely thought it was interesting and inspiring, but for some reason I did not end up quite loving it. However, I did like this book and I would recommend it if you are interested in animals and their stories, as well as the life of a vet, or if you need that final push to persevere with something. You could just watch the TV show if you are more interested in the veterinary side rather than his personal story. Some of the animal stories in here were on the TV show.
This is not a book I would have necessarily bought for myself, but I am glad I read it.
September 3, 2020
10/10 book. It combines technical Veterinary knowledge with the non-fiction emotive story of Noel Fitzpatrick’s childhood and journey to becoming a Vet and then súper vet. I particularly enjoyed his personal examples; especially moved by Winston, Enzo, Tiger and Willow. I am currently just starting my journey to becoming a Vet and this book was both extremely motivating and inspiring for me, especially since I can very clearly relate to Noel’s school experiences and his relationship with animals such as Pirate and the Robin during his childhood. I have always had a particular interest in One Medicine as I take an interest in both human medicine and animal medicine, as well as a lot of ethical issues such as using animals in experiments or growing them to harvest their organs and so on, so Noel’s literature defining and describing what he envisions One Medicine to be in the near future was really interesting to read. I also am very interested in biónics and prostheses and I learnt a lot from this book not only behind the science of them but also behind modern day challenges faced by those interested in these fields; such as wanting to do right by patients vs what makes a practice the most money. I particularly enjoyed reading about his use of the Ilizarov apparatus and how the distraction compression techniques allow osseointegration as this is an area I have studied in detail. Very good book all round. Only comment is I would love to have read more in detail about his personal life as an adult, not just about his career as Vet, as I feel he skims over these parts.
December 24, 2021
I remember last winter, on Sunday evenings, watching The Supervet on the couch under a cozy blanket and crying my eyes out for the poor animals which were presented in the show. At the same time Noel made me understand that there is hope and good quality of life also for badly injured animals. I wish I knew of Noel when my dog needed surgery on his spine, things could have been different. Reading the book made me like him even more as a human being. His work is amazing and I like people who keep their heart open although they were not always treated kindly.
“I have battled with periods of profound depression and feelings of worthlessness throughout my life. There have been times when I have wanted just to check out. I have made bad mistakes myself, though I have genuinely had deep feelings for everyone i have ever held in my arms. [...] I can honestly say that the pain of love rejected is a hundred time worse than any pain I ever felt. Worse then the pain of failure,or exams or worry about millions of pounds of de t: none of it even comes close to the pain of lost love. It’s crazy that our brains, in all of their complexity, choose to fire these neurons repeatedly that can most hurt us, and very little of it can be rationalized - just the same old movie of pain playing over and over in my mind.”
“‘The world breaks everyone and afterward many are strong in the broken places.’’Ah, now here’s the thing - in biology- the cross-linkage of collagen molecules in a non-anisotropic alignment is, in fact, commonly weaker than the original crimp pattern and when exercised may therefore tear again.”
“I have battled with periods of profound depression and feelings of worthlessness throughout my life. There have been times when I have wanted just to check out. I have made bad mistakes myself, though I have genuinely had deep feelings for everyone i have ever held in my arms. [...] I can honestly say that the pain of love rejected is a hundred time worse than any pain I ever felt. Worse then the pain of failure,or exams or worry about millions of pounds of de t: none of it even comes close to the pain of lost love. It’s crazy that our brains, in all of their complexity, choose to fire these neurons repeatedly that can most hurt us, and very little of it can be rationalized - just the same old movie of pain playing over and over in my mind.”
“‘The world breaks everyone and afterward many are strong in the broken places.’’Ah, now here’s the thing - in biology- the cross-linkage of collagen molecules in a non-anisotropic alignment is, in fact, commonly weaker than the original crimp pattern and when exercised may therefore tear again.”
December 29, 2018
I have always enjoyed watching Noel Fitzpatrick's TV programme The Supervet and so was delighted to be given this memoir. From his early years on a farm in Ireland to his creation of a state-of-the-art Referrals Centre in Surrey, this is a heartwarming and enjoyable story.
I guess many readers come to biographies looking to learn more about the subject's personal life, and Noel Fitzpatrick does share stories of his childhood and his romantic relationships. However, these chapters are rather stilted and Fitzpatrick seems much less comfortable dealing with these subjects than when he writes about the animals he cares for and about a life dedicated to pushing the boundaries of veterinary medicine.
Fortunately I was much more interested in Noel's scientific advances than his friends and lovers, and enjoyed his enthusiasm for his life's work and his compassion and warmth towards the animals he treats and their families. I found the technical detail of how he creates his innovative prostheses fascinating, and he also offers a compelling vision of a potential future where scientific and technological advances can come to replace the requirement for medical experiments on live animals.
Very enjoyable insight into the challenges and successes of this popular TV personality, nice Christmas reading.
I guess many readers come to biographies looking to learn more about the subject's personal life, and Noel Fitzpatrick does share stories of his childhood and his romantic relationships. However, these chapters are rather stilted and Fitzpatrick seems much less comfortable dealing with these subjects than when he writes about the animals he cares for and about a life dedicated to pushing the boundaries of veterinary medicine.
Fortunately I was much more interested in Noel's scientific advances than his friends and lovers, and enjoyed his enthusiasm for his life's work and his compassion and warmth towards the animals he treats and their families. I found the technical detail of how he creates his innovative prostheses fascinating, and he also offers a compelling vision of a potential future where scientific and technological advances can come to replace the requirement for medical experiments on live animals.
Very enjoyable insight into the challenges and successes of this popular TV personality, nice Christmas reading.
December 13, 2018
I have watched Noel Fitzpatrick on television since his days on the BBC as The Bionic Vet. Of course, now he is better known as The Supervet, star of the Channel Four programme that has been shown on prime time tv for years.
From what I have seen about Noel, he really is someone very special, his dedication is clearly evident, as is his genuine love of animals, and the fact that he loves hugs.
I have often wondered about who he is, the man behind the vet. What drives him to work more hours in the day than is healthy? There has never been any mention of relationships or even friends outside the vet practice, but surely there must be some life outside of it? And why does he hug pretty much everyone that he meets?
Listening To The Animals answers all of those questions. Growing up on an Irish farm was clearly tough and taught Noel some valuable lessons about hard work, although I think that most people will agree that the hours that he puts in are not healthy. The bullying that he suffered was heartbreaking to read, how lonely and isolated he felt as a little boy with only a farm dog to talk to about his worries. I loved how he knew from so early on that he wanted to be a vet and my goodness I’m not sure that I’ve ever heard of anyone working harder than he did to reach his goal. Serious respect to the man, whatever you may think of him, he is someone that will not be beaten and if one way of reaching his goal doesn’t work then he will find another way. Some of his stories were hilarious and had me chuckling away as I read.
I enjoyed reading about some of his hobbies that he loved and learnt from, although all fell to the wayside as work took over his life. And we also heard about relationships, here he was very honest with us, I’m not sure that I really needed to know how old he was when he lost his virginity, but it was an interesting chapter.
I also had no idea what went into building his practice, both in sweat and tears, but also money and debt. I told someone that I had read the book and the only thing that they said was ‘He must be so rich.’ I may have thought the same, but now I know better. He is not in the job for the money, it really is all about the animals.
He talked a lot about his love of Kiera, a little dog that he shares with a vet nurse because he is aware that his lifestyle is not one that would be fair for a dog. The relationship between man and their dog is a complex one, one that I think is often dismissed by people who have never had a dog and even some who have, but what makes Noel such an amazing vet is that he totally understands this. In fact, I think that he has a better understanding of that love and connection and how important it is than most people. I have a dog and I’ve been lucky enough to have had two other dogs who sadly died from old age, all three were part of my family but I am sure that I could not articulate the depth of the feeling that I have or have had for my dogs as well as Noel has.
At the time of writing the book, it appeared that Noel was single, I’ve always had a bit of a ‘thing’ for him, so if you’re reading this Noel and fancy meeting up then do get in touch!
Thank you to Trapeze Books for a copy of Listening To The Animals: Becoming The Supervet by Noel Fitzpatrick. I was under no obligation to review the book and all thoughts are my own.
From what I have seen about Noel, he really is someone very special, his dedication is clearly evident, as is his genuine love of animals, and the fact that he loves hugs.
I have often wondered about who he is, the man behind the vet. What drives him to work more hours in the day than is healthy? There has never been any mention of relationships or even friends outside the vet practice, but surely there must be some life outside of it? And why does he hug pretty much everyone that he meets?
Listening To The Animals answers all of those questions. Growing up on an Irish farm was clearly tough and taught Noel some valuable lessons about hard work, although I think that most people will agree that the hours that he puts in are not healthy. The bullying that he suffered was heartbreaking to read, how lonely and isolated he felt as a little boy with only a farm dog to talk to about his worries. I loved how he knew from so early on that he wanted to be a vet and my goodness I’m not sure that I’ve ever heard of anyone working harder than he did to reach his goal. Serious respect to the man, whatever you may think of him, he is someone that will not be beaten and if one way of reaching his goal doesn’t work then he will find another way. Some of his stories were hilarious and had me chuckling away as I read.
I enjoyed reading about some of his hobbies that he loved and learnt from, although all fell to the wayside as work took over his life. And we also heard about relationships, here he was very honest with us, I’m not sure that I really needed to know how old he was when he lost his virginity, but it was an interesting chapter.
I also had no idea what went into building his practice, both in sweat and tears, but also money and debt. I told someone that I had read the book and the only thing that they said was ‘He must be so rich.’ I may have thought the same, but now I know better. He is not in the job for the money, it really is all about the animals.
He talked a lot about his love of Kiera, a little dog that he shares with a vet nurse because he is aware that his lifestyle is not one that would be fair for a dog. The relationship between man and their dog is a complex one, one that I think is often dismissed by people who have never had a dog and even some who have, but what makes Noel such an amazing vet is that he totally understands this. In fact, I think that he has a better understanding of that love and connection and how important it is than most people. I have a dog and I’ve been lucky enough to have had two other dogs who sadly died from old age, all three were part of my family but I am sure that I could not articulate the depth of the feeling that I have or have had for my dogs as well as Noel has.
At the time of writing the book, it appeared that Noel was single, I’ve always had a bit of a ‘thing’ for him, so if you’re reading this Noel and fancy meeting up then do get in touch!
Thank you to Trapeze Books for a copy of Listening To The Animals: Becoming The Supervet by Noel Fitzpatrick. I was under no obligation to review the book and all thoughts are my own.
December 27, 2018
It is always interesting to read a book like this, about someone who has had a lifelong passion for what they do. Noel Fitzpatrick was a bit of a lonely boy growing up on a rural Irish farm, who develops an persona of Vetman - someone who protects and looks after all animals. He has gone on to specialize in Neuro and Ortho cases, to develop new procedures and new prosthetics for animals, lecture in the UK and Us and open his own hospital, as well as appearing in The Supervet on television.
As I've got older I can't watch many shows about animals being in pain, but have watched a couple of his shows and you have to admire his dedication to trying to do the best for the dogs and cats and people he looks after. I didn't realize until I had read the book that he is trying to integrate the sharing of information and techniques between human and animal medicine.
As I've got older I can't watch many shows about animals being in pain, but have watched a couple of his shows and you have to admire his dedication to trying to do the best for the dogs and cats and people he looks after. I didn't realize until I had read the book that he is trying to integrate the sharing of information and techniques between human and animal medicine.
June 6, 2025
I liked this as I’m often drawn to books about vets. He details his career path which almost feels obsessive to me. Everything gives way to his calling. He has made amazing progress in replacing legs and operating on backs of animals. I doubt many could afford his care. It seems that pet health insurance is very popular in Britain. He will sometimes donate his services but can’t very often because he has a huge overhead. Very large staff and much expensive machinery. MRI, CT scanner, radiographs and laboratory equipment.,
December 1, 2018
I absolutely love Noel Fitzpatrick and his TV series 'The Supervet' so I was extremely excited when I heard he had a book coming out. His book doesn't disappoint, and is extremely inspiring - he has led an interesting life, has had his ups and downs, experienced bullying at school, sadly puts himself down even now (why, Noel, why??), but as his TV series shows, he has come out the other side shining and successful - there's one up to those bullies! Well done, Noel!
August 8, 2019
What can I say, Noel has always been my hero, now he is even more so. He had such a bad start in education, being taught to be a good Catholic and little else at primary school and then being horrendously bullied at secondary school. He still had a dream, from a very young age, to be a vet and despite all the hurdles he achieved his ambition.
My only criticism is that the book is a little repetitive.
My only criticism is that the book is a little repetitive.
August 18, 2020
Noel Fitzpatrick writes with honesty, compassion and emotion about his life and how animals from the very beginning were a part of his life where he talks about losing twin lambs when he goes to rescue their mother in a rainstorm. This chapter then evolves into the relationship he has with his dad and how inconsolable about he was about losing him. Noel talks with both humour and emotion when talking about his family as well as the animals he treats. Brilliant.
November 6, 2019
Such a heartfelt, honest book, beautifully written, who knew Noel had the soul of a poet! I enjoyed every second of this book, just a wonderful man with a heart of gold, a pure love of animals yet also such kindness to all human beings, I wish there were more people with such huge kind hearts as Noel.
April 17, 2022
This is an amazing insight into someone who truly knows how animals think and feel through his own research and expertise as he tackles their exploits and lives from an early age on his Dad's farm and as he lives out and achieves his dream of becoming the super vet!
This is a great read and will also have you wanting to hear more about Noel's own struggles and breakthroughs in life!
This is a great read and will also have you wanting to hear more about Noel's own struggles and breakthroughs in life!
May 16, 2019
Maybe just a little bit biased though.
May 25, 2019
Very interesting insight into the early years of a remarkable man. Mostly entertaining though sometimes a little over technical
May 9, 2020
Hey, I just got your blood test report. U have been tested HIV positive. Report reads person has high percentage of Honey In Veins. No Wonder!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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