He’s not a pet. That’s why his cage is glass, the kind of glass where we can see him but he can’t see us. We’re just taking care of him until his leg is better, and then he’ll go back to the park. He can’t get used to people feeding him or petting him or dogs playing with him, or he won’t be safe in the wild, see? My dad rescued him. He’s a game warden. He found Sammy caught in an illegal trap, and he even arrested the men who put the trap out!” The animal was moving in such a tantalizing manner — quick little hops, its head making sudden jerky motions. I knew it must want to play Chase Me! I peered up at Maggie Rose and whined a little.

My dog back home, Molly…” CJ said to me, and her voice trailed off. She sighed. “I needed Molly so much, Max. I was younger when I got her, and stuff at home … it wasn’t so great. But you — it’s different with you. You need me. I just wish Jillian could see that!

Clarity was looking down and seemed unhappy, so I put my paws on her chest and tried to lick her face. In my experience, being licked by a dog can cheer up just about anybody.