One dark and stormy winter night, outside his remote New England farmhouse, Hal Borland heard howling. At the door were a half-starved black-and-white mutt and his puppy companion. While reluctant to welcome these uninvited guests into their home, Hal and his wife gave them refuge, finally naming them Pat and Mike. When a local boy lost his dog, and the Borland's gave Mike to him, Pat's strong personality blossomed, and he becomes a treasured companion and member of the family.

Accompanying Hal on hunts (and himself proving a formidable threat to local wildlife), Pat is the ideal touchstone for insights into the natural world. The Borlands learn valuable lessons from Pat--trust, relationships, and harmony with nature--the same values that led their move from city to country. Through this process, they develop a deeper appreciation for the place they call home. The Dog Who Came to Stay is a first-rate memoir detailing the immeasurable bond between humans and their beloved companions. With touching insight and wry humor free from sentimentality, it's a compelling tale for all ages; you won't put it down