This is a piece of realistic fiction told in the first person narrative by a young boy. It takes a look at the bond between people and pets. It highlights the emotions that come with new relationships and growing attachments. Sometimes, friends must let go, even if the ties between them are strong, so each can follow their own path in life.

The young boy and his family are owners of a chocolate lab named Rugby. They decide to adopt a little yellow puppy who needs to be cared for by a good family until she is old enough to be trained as a guide dog for the blind. The family willingly takes in Rosie even though they know they will have to give her up in a year. Of course, Rugby doesn't really understand that, but he doesn't take much interest in her at first anyway. But slowly, both the family and Rugby become very attached to Rosie. It is hard to give her up when the time comes, but the boy and his family know that it is important for Rosie to be able to go do what she was born to do - become a seeing eye dog. Poor Rugby clearly misses her after she is gone. The family keeps in touch with her trainers and is invited to attend her graduation. The boy has a great idea. He asks if Rugby can come too. Permission is granted and the two dogs are happily reunited on Rosie's graduation day. But Rosie has clearly grown and been well-trained. She stays close to her new owner who thanks the family for raising such a fine dog. Proud, the family takes leave of Rosie once again. Poor Rugby is pretty mopey, until the boy's dad comes home the next day with a new little wiggly puppy. This time Rugby warms up right away to their new little charge for a year.

Key Concepts to explore:

Pets can teach people lessons about friendships.

Sometimes friends must separate and learn to say goodbye.

If your family has a pet, this is a great opportunity to connect elements of a story to your child's life. How does having a pet add to your family? Have they ever had to say goodbye to a pet? Have they ever had to say goodbye to a good friend because of a move. How did that friendship change?

Vocabulary:

command (an order) manners proud
graduation trainer
Spelling:

the short /o/ sound

Try: rot, shot, crop, sock, clock, flock, body, spot, stocking, lobby

Story questions:

1. What kind of learner was Rosie? (fast)

2. What kinds of trips did the family take Rosie on? (to places she would later have to take her visually impaired owner)

3. How did the boy know that Rugby missed Rosie? (he whined and moped when she was gone)

4. How did Rugby react to the new puppy at the end? (welcomed it and kissed it on the nose)

Return to Friendship Unit