Ethan, a boy with tousled brown hair and bright eyes, steps into the shelter, clutching a bag of treats. The shelter manager waves at him, pointing toward the row of kennels waiting for attention. The dogs, sensing a visitor, jump up and wag their tails with anticipation.

Ethan moves carefully from kennel to kennel, scooping kibble and pouring water with gentle precision. As he slides a bowl toward a trembling beagle, he offers a soft smile. "Don’t worry, buddy. Breakfast is here," he whispers, watching the dog’s tail begin to wag.

With permission, Ethan enters the yard, instantly surrounded by a flurry of fur and tongues. He crouches down as a golden retriever nudges his hand, demanding attention. "Okay, okay, one at a time!" he laughs, his hands moving from scruffy ears to soft bellies.

The dogs tug eagerly, noses to the ground, as Ethan leads them along winding paths. Birds chirp above, and the dogs pause to sniff every tree. "It’s your day out, guys. Let’s make it count," he says, grinning as the pack bounds forward.

Ethan gently lifts a shy spaniel into the tub, coaxing her with soothing words. He lathers her fur, careful not to get soap in her eyes, as she shivers then settles into the warm water. "See? Not so bad, right?" he murmurs, rinsing her clean and wrapping her in a soft towel.

Ethan walks slowly down the aisle, pausing at each kennel to say goodbye. Soft whimpers and wagging tails follow him as he heads for the door. "I’ll see you all soon. Promise," he calls, stepping outside as the sky turns pink and orange, his heart full from a day well spent.