 Veterinary training did not concentrate on small pets, and Gurney found this sufficient spur to confront and complain about the self-regulation of the veterinary profession and highlight its lack of knowledge in the area.In 1992 Gurney wrote his first book, "The Proper Care of Guinea Pigs", during recovery from kidney cancer.During this period, Michael Bond, best known for his "Paddington Bear" books, met Gurney and encouraged him in his work and writing.