Description

Adam, a 10-year-old boy living in Phoenix, finds a lost puppy in his neighborhood park. He decides to take care of it until he can find its owner. Adam’s parents agree but remind him that he must be responsible for the puppy’s needs. Adam struggles with his new duties. He has to balance school, chores, and taking care of the puppy, which he names Buddy. Adam learns that Buddy needs lots of attention, regular feeding, and walks. It’s harder than he thought, and Adam feels overwhelmed. Adam decides to find Buddy’s owner. He makes posters and puts them around the neighborhood. He also asks people if they know Buddy. Meanwhile, he continues to take care of the puppy, growing more attached each day. Just as Adam is getting used to his routine with Buddy, someone responds to the posters claiming to be Buddy’s owner. Adam is faced with the challenge of saying goodbye to Buddy. He feels sad but knows it’s the right thing to do. Adam meets with Buddy’s owner and sees how happy Buddy is to reunite. The owner is thankful and tells Adam how responsible he has been. Although it’s hard, Adam feels good about his decision. He learns the importance of doing the right thing, even when it’s tough. As a reward for his responsibility and hard work, Adam’s parents agree to adopt a new puppy for him. Adam promises to apply all that he has learned from his experience with Buddy to take care of his new pet. He feels proud and ready for the responsibility.