When Dooley the chihuahua-dachshund mix was first adopted into the Robin family, it takes some adjusting. Soon he loves everything about his new family, even the tense, slightly sad smell that always lingered between Mr. and Mrs. Robin. After six months, the Robins’ six-year-old daughter Virginia shepherds Dooley through a big transition as her parents decide to live in separate homes. The girl and her dog experience their emotions, questions, and challenges side by side, and come to find joy and excitement in their new life circumstances.

[This is a story couples can use to introduce or talk to children about separation and divorce. The images are those of some struggle, some hard emotions, but two responsible adults coming to the child in honesty and respect — choosing to make a big change in the family's life.]