Book SummaryThe Dog Who Came to Stay, by Hal Borland

1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of The Dog Who Came to Stay

The connection between the person and his faithful canine companion deepened.

Pat's evolution from a wandering vagabond to an essential member of the family was a gradual one.

This section delves into the transformation of Pat from a wary nomad to a cherished member of the author's family. The story highlights the initial challenges and the eventual development of a profound, affectionate connection between the dog and its human companions.

At first, the dog was tentative and reserved in its approach toward the author and his companion, yet over time, its demeanor shifted.

When the dark-coated young canine known as Mike first appeared at the writer's residence, he displayed a quiet and subdued demeanor, reflecting his previous life without an owner. Borland depicts the dog as experienced and well-mannered, accepting the offered warmth and nourishment without demanding any special attention. The dog's reserved nature sharply contrasts with Mike's lively youthful energy and his immediate attempts to make himself comfortable as though he belonged there.

As the author provided gentle care for its wounds after a confrontation with a bobcat, the dog gradually became less wary. As the author recovered in his own space, his connection with the dog significantly deepened. Pat gradually integrated into the daily routine of the home, displaying affection for the author by joining him on leisurely walks and preferring to sleep near his feet at night, especially favoring the study as his place of refuge. The canine's serene acquiescence indicates its selection of the author as its preferred human ally.

Practical Tips

• Volunteer with a local wildlife rescue or rehabilitation center to gain hands-on experience in caring for injured animals. While you won't be treating human wounds here, the skills and confidence you gain can be transferable. You'll learn how to approach an injured animal safely, which can be useful if you ever need to assist a pet or wild animal in distress.

Other Perspectives

• The subdued demeanor upon first meeting could be a common response in dogs when encountering new situations, and not specifically because of a past without an owner.
• It's possible that Mike's subdued behavior was due to uncertainty or fear rather than a naturally reserved nature, and with time, he might show more assertive behaviors once he feels secure.
• It's possible that what is interpreted as "lively youthful energy" could actually be signs of anxiety or stress, rather than comfort or a sense of belonging.
• The dog's reduced wariness could be attributed to factors other than the author's care, such as a natural adaptation to a safer environment over time.
• Integration into a daily routine does not necessarily imply a positive or healthy adjustment; it could be a sign of dependency or lack of stimulation for the dog.
• The behavior of sleeping near the author's feet could be driven by the dog's search for warmth and security, not necessarily an indication of a special bond.
• The study being a place of refuge could be coincidental if it's the quietest part of the house or has the most comfortable sleeping spot, rather than an active choice by Pat.
• Serene acquiescence might not necessarily indicate a preference for an ally but could be a survival strategy adopted by the dog to fit into its new environment.

As the animal's trust and affection for the author grew, so did his attachment and affection for the dog.

Initially, the author takes a pragmatic and unemotional stance toward the pair of unclaimed canines. Borland led a simple life in the countryside, yet he understood that the presence of a dog might introduce unforeseen intricacies. Initially hesitant, he thought about looking for the rightful owners of the dogs and considered reaching out to the community's canine control officer. Witnessing Pat's brave encounter with the bobcat and his serene presence indoors, a sense of admiration and understanding begins to grow.

Borland observes the subtle demonstrations of Pat's affection, such as a gentle push with his nose, shared moments of relaxation, and the silent connection they experience while traversing the mountain paths. Pat's subtle behaviors reveal an increasingly strong connection and reliance on the author, despite not actively pursuing recognition. The author depicts a shift in their bond, showing how Pat has...

The Dog Who Came to Stay Summary In the life of the author, Pat became a steadfast companion, defender, and friend.

The story explores the way the author's life was profoundly enhanced through the inclusion of the dogs, evolving from simple companionship to a profound connection marked by loyalty, a feeling of safety, and a substantial influence on their daily existence.

The dog's steadfast loyalty and protective watch over the author's property and domain.

Borland highlights the dog's unwavering loyalty to his chosen home and his perpetual vigilance in its defense. He portrays Pat as a loyal guardian, emphasizing his instinctive tendency to defend his territory and his skill in discerning allies from adversaries.

Pat loyally safeguarded the premises, diligently ensuring the security of the adjacent meadows and the rising terrain of the mountain from all trespassers, whether they were people or wildlife.

Pat's protective nature extended beyond the household, encompassing not only the verdant fields but also the mountainous inclines and the surrounding valley. He valiantly protects his territory, warding off rival canines and steadfastly challenging intruders near the railway overpass, while also repelling hunters who encroach upon his space. His courage in facing down much larger...

The Dog Who Came to Stay Summary Pat's interaction with different animals and the environment.

This section explores the deep connection Pat, the canine, has with nature, highlighting his skill in tracking prey, the harmonious relationships he forms with certain creatures, and his interactions with the diverse array of wildlife around the author's home.

Pat excelled as a relentless hunter, tirelessly pursuing various pests including woodchucks.

Borland emphasizes the dog's exceptional skill in pursuing and apprehending groundhogs, highlighting his innate abilities, systematic approach, and relentless resolve when hunting this particular quarry.

The canine, referred to as Pat, became renowned for his remarkable tracking skills and his proficiency in the pursuit of game.

Pat demonstrates a natural aptitude for hunting, with a particular proficiency in tracking down woodchucks. Borland details the canine's exceptional sense of smell, keen eyesight, and acute auditory senses, all of which contribute to the animal's ability to find, chase, and capture its prey. The writer thoroughly describes how the dog skillfully employs strategic moves and displays unwavering determination to outwit and capture even the most challenging woodchucks.

Practical Tips -...

The Dog Who Came to Stay Summary The writer reflects on the certain yet mysterious past of Pat, as well as the unyielding progression of time.

The book's concluding part poignantly delves into the author's reflections on Pat growing older and the enigmatic aspects of his existence prior to their lives intertwining. The book delves into the themes of mortality and the enduring enigma of personal identity across species, while also reflecting on the melancholic progression of time.

The author gradually accepted the advancing age and declining health of Pat.

Borland openly addresses the difficulties linked to Pat's growing old and his escalating weakness. He recounts how Pat's energy gradually waned, marked by moments of confusion and a noticeable decrease in both the pursuit of prey and overall physical movement, symptoms commonly linked to aging. The author conveys a reluctant acceptance of the inevitable waning of vitality, noting the parallel between the passage of his own life and that of Pat's.

The author's guilt and uncertainty about how to properly care for the aging Pat

As Pat ages, Borland contends with doubts and feelings of insufficiency regarding the care he administers. The author contemplates his ability to provide the comfort and support needed as Pat advances in age. He conveys his...