Puppy Max doesn't have the easiest start in life. Taken from his mother, he faces hunger, living alone outside, a vicious dog next door, and even menacing raccoons. He is abandoned at an animal shelter, makes and loses friends, and is finally rescued. Can a dog like Max go from years without a bath to unconditional love and acceptance? Or will his new family abandon him again? Max is never sure--until the ultimate challenge shakes his world.