A dog gives many good reasons it likes to go for a walk--to chase away the neighbor's cat, to greet people on the street, to watch guys shooting hoops, and to feel the wind lifting its ears.

"Life in middle school is finally starting to seem bearable-until Rafe spots his grandmother standing on the free-meal line at the local soup kitchen. In order to help bring in more money, Rafe concocts a brilliant plan-a dog-walking business that soon turns into a huge money-making neighborhood empire"--

A dog walking venture helps thirteen-year-old Louis, who would rather kick back than stand out, learn how to be a friend.

Zoe can't help but fall in love with Bear, an adorable Bernese mountain dog puppy she meets in the park after school. Scout is large and lively and belongs to a new family in the neighborhood. Bear's owners are always on the go and are grateful when Jade offers to walk Bear. But as she spends more time with him, she begins to worry that they aren't able to give him the attention and exercise he needs. How can she help Bear when he isn't her dog...