What I have to say is just an opinion...no experience with these books.
One of the great things about HOD is that it is very thorough, it's fun, and it maximizes your school time....does NOT take endless hours to complete.
![Surprised :o](./images/smilies/icon_surprised.gif)
This means you do not have to feel that you need to tweak it here or there to make it a complete program, because it already is! However, what is also great is that you
can add something extra, and it still will not take ALL DAY to complete school. So, I think if you want to add the extra Science you could, and it would be fine. I don't know how they would be as readers for your dc to read, I guess that depends on their reading ability. I have a dd who LOVES all things animal too, so I completely understand your 'dilemma'. I would say adding this one day a week might be a good addition to your schooling; that way it's not adding time to your day
every day, but you can still make your dc's studies a bit more personal to them. You could even work on a lapbook or notebook to go with each lesson you do. Just my thoughts. I'm sure others will be along to offer their opinions and suggestions as well.