Kind Provision is a book about animals and humans. In it I explore the similarities that link animals, and I look at the wide variety in organ structure, function, and development noted in domestic animals that makes them unique. The book also looks at the human-animal bond. It looks at human-animal interaction throughout history, and at husbandry and imprinting. It also examines the therapeutic benefits of animals, both during normal interaction and in clinical settings. My book also looks at ultimate questions, such as "Where did we come from," "Why are we here," and "why are there problems?" Other philosophical matters, such as the concept of good and evil, souls, and distinctives that set humans apart from other animals are also examined. My book is different from many other recent books on the subject because, while my conclusion gives value to both humans and animals, it does it in a way that is currently not in vogue. It does all this while mixing humor and examples from veterinary practice with a serious discussion of the topics.
My name is Peter Winn Martin. I am the senior veterinarian and chief bottle washer at Flemington Veterinary Hospital. I grew up on St. Simons Island. My parents are Marion Fleming Martin, Jr., who grew up in Flemington, and Kate Jones, who grew up in Riceboro. My earliest childhood memories involve my family's buff cocker spaniel, Noel. My first pet was my Christmas collie, Robbie. In my home, I was the pet caregiver, so whether I was caring for Jingle's hot spots or feeding our cats, or just giving loving care to and receiving unconditional love from whoever we had at any certain time, the job was mine by natural inclination. My first job was working at the golf shop at the Sea Island Golf Course. I straightened merchandise and ran members golf tournaments. For my next job I was fortunate to work as a kennel assistant for our family veterinarian, Dr. Billy Weeks. He fueled my desire to become a veterinarian through his caring concern for his patients and their owners, a trait I think I developed and share. I attended the Veterinary College at the University of Georgia, and while there I met my wife Cathy, an artist, teacher, Mah Jong player, and world class cook. We have been married 37 years, and we have four married children, James Fleming (Jenny and four daughters), Anna Winn (Brian), Ellen Louisa (Neal), and Sara Caroline (Ted). My wife and I currently care for Rudy, our ten year old Weimaraner, and Penelope, a three year old American Staffordshire Terrier, both rescues. I enjoy morning and evening walks with them and golf without them. When they give me a chance to sit and relax, Rudy sits on my right, with at least a paw touching me, and Penelope sits on my left, as close as she can. We were founding members of Trinity Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Statesboro, where I was a deacon for years. I was on the board of Trinity Christian School in Statesboro for numbers of years. We now are members of New Covenant Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Richmond Hill. I am on the Board of Selectmen of historic Midway Congregational Church, and also on the board of Colonial Midway Museum. I am a Life Scout with a son who made Eagle Scout, and I was an assistant scoutmaster for a number of years.
