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Dogs can be true and loyal family companions, argues W. Bruce Cameron in his novel A Dog’s Way Home. Cameron illustrates this through the journey that Bella undertakes in order to get home to Lucas, and through the betrayal Dutch feels midway through the novel.

Bella grows up with Lucas, having known him from the time she was only a little puppy. She comes to see him not only as her owner, but as family. Lucas forms the core of her whole world, and everything she does in life includes Lucas - from treats and tricks, to going to work, to having to avoid Chuck. Bella has developed a deep love and loyalty for Lucas because of this. The same love and loyalty applies to Mom, such as when Bella is ready to attack Mom’s boyfriend to loyally defend Mom. Mom is part of the family, and Bella will loyally defend Mom.