Year of the Dog 2007

Based on the address on the checks that Peggy writes, we find her situated somewhere in sunny California. Peggy, living alone with her beagle, Pencil, works as a secretary in a dull cubicle for a man named Robin, who seems to lack confidence in his role at a suburban office building.

During one of her visits to her brother, Pier, his wife Bret, and their adorable young children, Lissie—a spirited first-grader—and baby Benjy, tensions arise when Lissie becomes jealous of the stuffed animal Peggy brings for Benjy, insisting on keeping it for herself. Although Lissie is generally a good-natured girl, the conflict reveals a glimpse of the strife Peggy faces in her familial interactions.

Tragedy strikes when something unfortunate happens to Pencil, leading Peggy to form a bond with her neighbor, Al. While their relationship is ambiguous and not clearly romantic at first, Al, who works in construction and enjoys hunting, seems like a mismatch for Peggy. Despite not being malicious, Peggy starts to suspect that Al may somehow be involved in Pencil’s misfortune—though nothing indicates that he is to blame.

Seeking solace, Peggy meets Newt, a wonderful man dedicated to saving at-risk dogs from euthanasia, including a special dog that requires wheels instead of hind legs. He introduces her to Valentine, a troubled German shepherd. Due to city regulations, Newt can only temporarily house Valentine, but if Peggy adopts him, Newt can help train him.

Their relationship hints at potential romance as they bond over their mutual love of animals. However, Peggy’s dedication to Newt’s cause soon spirals into an obsession. She transitions to a vegan lifestyle, pressuring those around her, including Bret, who owns numerous furs, causing tension in their relationships. Peggy’s heightened sense of morality even extends to Layla when she discovers Layla’s fiancé, Don, is unfaithful.

Peggy’s lifetime of misfortune with dogs culminates when she finds herself overwhelmed with not just the rescue dog but also many others whose time has run out. Fortunately, those who know her step in to assist, helping her manage the influx of dogs. Eventually, her life stabilizes as she hops on a bus, heading to an event specially tailored for animal lovers, signifying a new chapter in her surprisingly chaotic, yet heartfelt journey.