Year of the Dog

Like millions of people, Peggy (Molly Shannon) has found a comfortable niche in which to live. She has a solid administrative job, close family and the dependable companionship of her dog, Pencil. Peggy and Pencil are inseparable companions. They sleep in the same bed, eat together, and even take-in Friday night movies together. Life is uncomplicated and safe, and although Pencil is a Beagle, Peggy is happily entrenched in a satisfying relationship of co-dependency with her beloved pet.

This stable status quo is rocked when Pencil’s sudden death leaves Peggy reeling in a world devoid of meaning without him. Her quest for happiness leads her to the attractive, yet ambiguous Newt (Peter Sarsgaard) who introduces her to animal activism, a vegan lifestyle and even a new dog. Inspired by Newt, Peggy unleashes an obsession with animal rights and dog placement, which greatly concerns her brother (Thomas McCarthy), sister-in-law (Laura Dern), best friend (Regina King), neighbor (John C. Reilly) and boss (Josh Pais) who all feel her life is dangerously out of balance.

Unable to overcome continuing disappointment with her fellow human beings, Peggy ultimately makes a heartfelt commitment to the animal world, where, for her, the love is unconditional and satisfaction is guaranteed.