Author Interview – Ruth McDonagh – They’re All Barking – A Dog’s Guide To Human Behaviour

On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, Ruth McDonagh share’s what inspired her to write Professor Daniel Springer-Spaniel’s They’re All Barking, which looks at the relationship between dogs and their humans, and the impact of human behavior on canine well-being.

 

Written by JJ Barnes

www.jjbarnes.co.uk

I interviewed WEBB practitioner Ruth McDonagh about her life and career, being inspired to write about the relationship between humans and dogs in They’re All Barking, and her creative writing process.

Tell me a bit about who you are.

I’m Ruth McDonagh a Practitioner of Whole Energy Body Balance (WEBB) for dogs. WEBB is a type of canine massage that focuses on easing physical and emotional tension in a dog’s neuro-fascia – the connective tissue. The fascia is full of nerve-endings, so by releasing tension in it you also help relax a dog’s nervous system. As well as helping mobility issues in older dogs, WEBB is good for relaxing dogs who may display nervous, anxious, fearful and reactive behaviour. I’ve loved and shared my life with dogs since being a child and always wanted to work with them. I retrained as a WEBB Practitioner five years ago and it’s the best job in the world!

When did you first WANT to write a book?

I’d not planned to write a book. I’ve always loved writing and joined a free online writing masterclass workshop. As a result of the first evening’s writing I did in that group, the idea for ‘They’re All Barking’ was born.

When did you take a step to start writing? 

I’ve loved writing stories since I was old enough to hold a pencil. After I left school, I trained and qualified as a journalist. I’ve worked on newspapers, in communications, media management and PR, but always wanted to put my writing skills to a more creative use.

How long did it take you to complete your first book from the first idea to release?

It took me just under 15 months from initial idea to publication. The writing was in bursts and on and off in between my ‘paid for’ work.

What made you want to write They’re All Barking?

In the past five years since training and qualifying as a WEBB Practitioner and working with dogs and their humans, I’ve learnt so much. I’ve also a good friend who is a dog trainer and we regularly discussed common issues people have when taking a dog into their life. There are many pitfalls humans encounter when having a dog and it can result in a dog with behavioural or emotional issues.

What were your biggest challenges with writing They’re All Barking?

Making the time! You have to be disciplined and try to write every day, even if it’s just for 15 minutes. You also have to have faith in what you’re doing and not let your inner negative voice take over. Like many first-time writers I’d often have that voice saying ‘this is rubbish’ ‘why are you bothering?’ ‘Who will want to read this’? etc. You have to ignore it, carry on and trust in yourself and the story you have to tell.

What was your research process for They’re All Barking?

Much of the information in the book is from what I’ve learnt from various sources and experienced either personally or with other dog lovers I know. 

How did you plan the structure of They’re All Barking?

Initially I just began writing on a particular theme and let it run. After I’d written a few chapters on specific topics I realized I needed to plan a topic for each chapter so did a rough outline of what would go where and in a chronological order that matched having a dog in your life. That gave focus and direction.

Did you get support with editing, and how much editing did They’re All Barking need?

Yes, I called on a good friend who was a marketing manager and copy writer I’d worked with and respected. Initially I edited the first drafts myself twice, then sent it to her. She edited and proofread it three times for me.

What is the first piece of writing advice you would give to anyone inspired to write a book?

Stop talking and thinking about it – do it! Write about something you love or are passionate about. Try not to overthink it. Don’t be afraid to just type away or what you’re writing – you can always go back and delete, edit and rewrite to your heart’s content. The important thing is getting in the flow and getting something down. I find once I start, I often can’t stop!

Can you give me a hint about any further books you’re planning to write?

I’m thinking of doing a children’s version of ‘They’re All Barking’ to help educate the younger generation.

And, finally, are your proud of your accomplishment? Was it worth the effort?

What really makes it all worthwhile for me is when readers tell me how much they enjoyed the book, that they learnt from it and that it made them rethink their views about dogs. As the aim of the book was always to raise awareness of how sensitive dogs are, how much they are affected by human emotions, behaviour and actions, if the book makes readers think about this, I am proud of and delighted about that.

Pop all your book, website and social media links here so the readers can find you:

Paperback: https://amzn.to/4d5vwFs

Hardcover: https://amzn.to/47nT2fr

www.professordaniel.co.uk

Facebook: Professor Daniel Springer-Spaniel    

https://www.facebook.com/p/Professor-Daniel-Springer-Spaniel-61553905868452/

Instagram: ProfessorDanielSpSpaniel

https://www.instagram.com/professordanielspspaniel/

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