The story of a wild dog who befriended Marine Major Brian Dennis in Iraq, and, when they were separated, trekked seventy miles through the desert winter to rejoin his friend.

In Venice, Italy, in the 1890's, a stray cat draws attention to a coffee shop in which he inspires composer Guiseppi Verdi, and as the feline's fame grows, the shop's owner entertains royalty, the pope, and many others. Includes historical notes about the real Nini and his visitors.