I enjoyed the film, well done, acting good, and story of overcoming addiction, reasons for such addictive behavior explored and explained. The introduction of the dog as a companion and inspiration for living and overcoming was a valid story point. But...the dog was seriously ill. At the vet, not even sure it would survive, yet!, was entered into a serious pulling competition while having its stomach wrapped in order to avoid a relapse. Then all cheers and kudos to the dog and owner for winning. What was the point of putting the loyal dog through that, really? I realize it's a metaphor for the young man's overcoming addiction, but this, in the end, is a form of animal abuse. The dog was so loyal to the point of death. Unnecessary.
Review of The Year of the Dog
