Stella

Throughout the novel, relationships between humans and animals are shown to be important and helpful to both parties. Stella’s first key relationship is with Connie, her handler. When Connie dies, Stella has a very hard time dealing with the loss. At first she struggles because she does not know Connie is dead. She constantly thinks about her and wants to be reunited with her. Then, when she realizes Connie has died, she struggles because her mistake led to Connie’s death. She feels guilty and ashamed and must work to overcome these feelings and heal. Just as Stella loves Connie, Connie loves Stella, so much that she manages to communicate with Stella even after she has died. Even though Stella’s mistake cost Connie her life, Connie’s love for Stella has not diminished. She understands that good people and animals still make mistakes. The bond between the two brought feelings of worth to Stella and brought love to both Connie and Stella, and this relationship continues even after Connie has died.

Cloe is Stella’s new handler at the end of the novel, and she is the only other person Stella has loved as much as she loved Connie. Their relationship plays a key role in helping Stella heal from her trauma. Cloe’s loving spirit and intuitive understanding of Stella help them develop a bond tight enough that Stella is determined to finally face her fears to save Cloe. Further, Cloe’s epilepsy gives Stella a way to continue using the abilities she takes such pride in—sniffing out danger—in a new context, reinforcing her sense of self-worth and purpose. The relationship is equally important to Cloe because Cloe needs a friend, and Stella serves this purpose. Cloe does not realize it until the end of the novel, but the relationship is important for her physical health as well, because only Stella can predict when Cloe is about to have a seizure. Stella and Cloe’s strong bond not only brings them both comfort and companionship, but it also allows them to do what they’re best at to take care of each other.

Esperanza has her own relationship with animals. Her primary dog is Nando, who has deep respect for Esperanza. Nando serves as more than just a companion to Esperanza, however. He is a working dog, and he helps Esperanza herd the sheep. Their relationship is mutually beneficial because Nando gains esteem from Esperanza and Esperanza receives help from Nando, but their relationship is not as personal as Stella’s relationship with Cloe, as Stella becomes a house dog while Nando does not.

However, relationships between humans and animals are not always mutually beneficial. A strong bond is only possible when humans respect animals. Vern and his nephews have no such respect, as evidenced by their neglectful and abusive treatment of animals and the things Vern says about hounds to Esperanza. Vern and his nephews have no close bonds with animals, so they don’t get to experience the rewards that come from such a bond.