Chaucer

Chaucer is a compact, stocky, strong dog whose visits bring Toby the canine companionship he misses while serving people. Their friendship begins in the yard with an immediate wrestling match and becomes a regular part of Toby’s life.

Introduction and First Meeting

Fran leads Toby into the yard, where he is surprised to find Chaucer waiting. Chaucer carries the scent of Patsy’s cinnamon on his fur; the two dogs begin wrestling at once, with the ease of companions who seem to have known each other for years. Fran recognizes how much Toby needs the play, while Patsy notes that the visit is a treat for Chaucer as well.

A Recurring Companion

Chaucer returns often after that first meeting. Toby is expected to practice Be Still, but he always makes time to wrestle with his friend. The visits matter in part because Toby misses other dogs: families sometimes bring dogs into the rooms, but those visitors are anxious and rarely play, even when they are let into the yard.

As the years pass, Chaucer remains a familiar presence. Although the small yard has no dog door, its door opens when Toby approaches, and he can follow its smells through the changing seasons. Chaucer continues to come regularly; once he learns that Eddie can be counted on for treats, the dogs spend almost as much time in the kitchen as they do outside.

Character and Significance

Eddie describes Chaucer as a hardworking dog whose labor is not fancy and whose appearance does not make people see anything beyond that work. He contrasts him with Toby, whom he calls a doctor and exceptionally smart, but the comparison ends in shared reward: “You both get bacon today, though.” Chaucer’s visits give Toby something the human affection around him cannot replace—a chance to wrestle with another dog—and make friendship, play, and treats recurring parts of Toby’s years.