Dog of the North

The Dog of the North van is a symbol of autonomy. Although Burt's van is in disrepair, the vehicle ultimately grants Penny a sense of freedom. The van not only gives her a place to stay, but offers her the chance to travel out of her present troubles and into a future life at the novel's end.

Kweecoats

Burt's dog Kweecoats is symbolic of sympathy. At a time in her life when Penny feels disconnected from most people, she finds herself quickly falling in love with the dog. Taking care of and later inheriting Kweecoats offers Penny the opportunity to engage with and invest in another living creature. The dog teaches her about both sympathy and empathy.

Skeleton

The skeleton found in Pincer's shed is symbolic of the past. The human remains are indeed a metaphor for the proverbial skeletons in one's closet...