OAA Book of the Month: A Dog Named 647 by Nancy Kay
Some books break your heart. Others ignite it. Dr. Nancy Kay’s middle-grade novel A Dog Named 647 manages to do both. Inspired by the hidden world of puppy mills, this story follows twelve-year-old Mia, who discovers an emaciated retriever identified only as 647. What begins as one girl’s encounter with a neglected dog quickly unfolds into a journey of courage, friendship, and activism.
Shining a Light on Puppy Mills
Through Mia’s eyes, readers are drawn into the grim reality of commercial breeding facilities — places where dogs are caged, mistreated, and stripped of their identities. Yet the novel isn’t only about cruelty; it’s about resilience. The suspenseful plot, filled with daring choices and tense moments, keeps young readers turning the pages while also teaching them how systemic neglect thrives when left unchallenged.
Friendship at the Core
While the dog named 647 is the catalyst for change, Mia’s bond with her best friend Cassie drives the story forward. Their teamwork — from quiet research to bold action — highlights how advocacy often succeeds when rooted in collaboration and trust. The book shows young people that they don’t have to act alone to make a difference.
Lessons Beyond the Story
What sets A Dog Named 647 apart is its emphasis on real-world change. Dr. Kay closes the novel with practical ways kids can get involved — from writing letters to leaders to organizing awareness events. The result is part story, part toolkit, and a gentle invitation for readers to turn compassion into action.
Why Read It
For youth, the novel provides both a gripping narrative and an empowering message: you have the ability to speak up for those without a voice. For adults, it offers insight into how awareness begins at the ground level, often sparked by the passion of young advocates.
At its heart, A Dog Named 647 is a story about empathy — for animals, for friends, and even for people who are caught in broken systems. It reminds us that while one act of kindness might not save the world, it can set change in motion.
Take Action in Ohio
The story of A Dog Named 647 highlights the cruelty of commercial dog breeding — a reality that still exists here in Ohio. Right now, legislators have the chance to hold puppy mill breeders accountable and strengthen protections for animals.
Support OAA’s campaign to Hold Puppy Mill Breeders Accountable for Animal Abuse. Contact your state representatives and urge them to take a stand against neglect and cruelty in commercial breeding facilities.
Your voice can help ensure that dogs like 647 are no longer treated as numbers, but as living beings deserving of care and compassion.
