By focusing on the life of a dog, the book illustrates that animals are resilient and adaptable, able to survive through the harshest circumstances. If they don’t adapt, they’ll die; these high stakes force Squirrel to adjust to each new setting and situation. After Mother disappears, the pups demonstrate this theme in every scene as they constantly adapt to their environment and endure various conflicts. First, they must accept the loss of their beloved mother: “It was our first night without Mother, and it seemed very long. In the morning when I awoke I saw Bone […] but no Mother, I knew that she was not going to come back” (27). In addition to overcoming grief, Squirrel acquiesces to Bone’s desire to leave the comfort of home and fend for themselves in the woods. Suppressing her sadness over Mother, quelling her worries about leaving home, and learning to fulfill her basic needs make Squirrel mature quickly. She and Bone remain determined as they adapt to life as wandering strays by hunting, drinking from streams, and sleeping in trees. The two puppies support each other and apply Mother’s teachings, never giving up hope that they’ll find food, water, and shelter, pushing through hunger pains as they travel.