pet or animal assisted therapy photo documentary

"This book clearly shows that animals are empaths. Their ability to feel for others can open us to the power of love that heals, and awaken the deeper love that moves us to treat all beings with reverential respect." — Dr. Michael Fox, Senior Scholar, Bioethics, The Humane Society of the United States

"Besides inspiring and entertaining you, You Have A Visitor goes a step further by highlighting practical, daily-life benefits in pet visitation and therapy. With incredible stories and pictures, it's an outstanding and unforgettable celebration of the joys and rewards of the people-pet partnership." — Marty Becker, D.V.M., co-author of Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul and Chicken Soup for the Dog and Cat Lover’s Soul

"What secret healing goes on between man and animals? Is it possible to reach people who are sick, in pain or incapable of normal interaction with pet therapy? You Have a Visitor explores this possibility brilliantly with text and incredible black-and-white photos by Renee Lamm Esordi, who documented several visits to hospitals, schools and nursing homes."
— Kathleen Youmans, Independent Publisher

A photo from the book was chosen to be published in the AKC's new book, "Our Dogs:A Century of Images and Words from the AKC Gazette", 2003, available at all bookstores.

Photos from the book were featured in the AKC's 2002 "Lend Me a Paw" calendar dedicated to the memory of those lost in the events of September 11. Proceeds from the sale of the calendar were donated to the AKC Relief Funds. Photos were also featured in the Oct 2000 service dog issue of the AKC Gazette.

You Have A Visitor: Observations on Pet Visitation and Therapy is available at most bookstores, amazon.com, bn.com, or by phone 800-247-6553.

"Esordi's stunning collection is a celebration of 'people with different backgrounds and experiences [who are] joined...by a common love for animals and the unquestionable benefits they bring.' Weaving a significant story line among her moving portraits, she inspires the reader into active participation, as well as admiration of her artistry. It is indeed a journey of love."

Rhona Zaid, Ph.D
Whole Life Times, Oct 2000

Animal Fair Magazine Review from Animal Fair Travel Issue 2001
"More and more AAT teams are gaining admittance into health care facilities, and for good reason. Esordi's documentary photos speak volumes on the physical and mental benefits of AAT and confirm what pet lovers have known all along: animals are good medicine. "During AAT visits," says Esordi, "studies show a significant increse in confidence, self-esteem, motivation, and coordination, and a decrease in anxiety and blood pressure levels." While that's wonderful news, studies are best left to scientists. One need only look at these snapshots to realize that a picture taken by Esordi is worth a thousand studies...the glimpse we are afforded provides the much-needed exposure to this underutilized supplemental treatment to traditional therapy. Esordi's contribution to furthering public awareness is a valuable one."