Hank's nose is out of joint because his master, ranch owner High Loper, has invited a neighbor over for quail hunting. Not only is that rancher, Billy, the owner of the Love of Hank's Life, Beulah the beauteous collie, he also owns Plato the Bird Dog. Plato is the love of Beulah's life and Loper thinks he's a good dog. Why, Loper insults Hank by comparison -- where Hank can hear him!

Angry, Hank takes it out on Pete the Barncat. Pete plans revenge and Hank walks right into it because he won't listen to his assistant, Drover.

Billy and Plato arrive. Plato is a really nice dog who hasn't a clue that Hank is jealous. Of course, Hank pays no attention to the clear clues Beulah gives him that he hasn't a chance with her. (Given that Hank is also smitten with Miss Scamper and Missy Coyote, he might as well give up.)

We don't get to find out the reaction Billy has when he sees the damage Drover does to his new maroon pickup truck, but I doubt it would be suitable family entertainment anyway.

While Hank is expecting to be killed for falling into Pete's trap, Beulah is kidnapped by a coyote. Yes, it's a coyote fans have met before. Yes, it's the coyote Hank would least like to meet again.

Can Hank work together with Plato to find and rescue the fair collie?

Hank is a jerk for most of the book, but I really liked his pep talk to Plato. Hank's two love songs are fun. I do recommend listening to this book. ( )