The bitter cold and relentless strain had taken their toll. Jeremy’s heart ached as he realized the dog’s condition was dire—it had sacrificed so much to keep the owlets safe. Panic threatened to overtake Jeremy as he stroked the dog’s matted fur.
He couldn’t bear the thought of losing the dog now, not after everything it had done. Jeremy carefully lifted the dog, cradling its frail form in his arms, and carried it inside, hoping the warmth of his home would be enough to save it.