What's a skunk to do when he finds himself encased in a cardboard box, surrounded by possible enemies, and with his "weapon" taken from him? Luckily he is simply surrounded by the friendly Patch family animals — a cat, two dogs, a goat, and a duck. But Palmer thinks they're all just foolish backyard pets whose blind trust in humans is sure to be betrayed. When the animals hear they are to be "farmed out" and separated, Palmer lears the meaning of true friendship."Enthusiastic affection for animals overflows in Wallace's warm story."—ALA Booklist