"My Kids Dog", by Ron Hansen is about an all American sounding father, who is going through the

experience of his family dog dying. The father goes on to describe the relationship between himself and
the family pet, Sparky. Their relationship was rocky at best. He often felt as if the dog was secretly
challenging him and purposely giving him a hard time. Though the relationship between Sparky and the
father was difficult, we are also shown compassion and underlying love. The bond that takes place
between them is shown in many ways such as when the deceased dog, that was packed away inside of a
suitcase, is referred to as a family arolium. Compassion between the two is suggested when the father
goes to the vet with the deceased dog; Solely to clear Sparky's name after being accused of biting the
calf of a neighbor's child. It is also suggested that the father is secretly jealous of Sparky because of the
praise and attention he receives from his wife and children. The father is convinced that Sparky is
actively manipulating the rest of the family and it is suggested when the father starts to recall past
events. This is backed when the father says, "little Foo-Foo was a changeling, conning them with the
tail”.

We see more signs of principles in the father. This is backed when the father goes to get into
his car and notices that the gas tank was empty; That Zack had not replenished the fuel after attending
the Hollywood Bowl. It is also suggested that Zack is more unprincipled from the line, "Zack in the
netherworld of the surf shop". It is also suggested that the father is a man of principles because of his
meticulous planning and his thought process on fulfilling the duties and requirements of Sparky's death.
This includes burial, transporting Sparky's remains, going to the veterinary clinic, comforting his family
and the grief that comes with the loss of a beloved pet.

With all the information we are given I feel it is within reason to say that the father truly did love
his dog Sparky. In my opinion it is the father who cares most deeply for the animal. What this story is
showing us is the grieving process that takes place between a man and his animal. There is no clear cut
way on how exactly we are supposed to process grief. In this particular story with this particular man, I
believe he is focusing his attention on the annoyance the animal created in his life. The father is able to
go about what it is he is having to do; A beloved pets funeral.