Mary-Alice's best friend Claire decides to adopt a 'sister' for her Pit Bull Rex, so the girls pay a visit to the local animal shelter. There they meet Bonsai, a Japanese Akita, very much in need of a forever home. For 6 long months, people have passed her by misjudging her to be too old, too big or too something. With the help of Claire's mom, the girls give this loving dog a chance but must first Start Off on the Right Paw, properly introducing Bonsai to Rex and M.A.'s best friend, Mr. Rico. Along the way the girls understand the need for pet safety and excitedly await their chance to volunteer and help other animals in need. The prelude to this book, Don't Judge a Book by its Cover, was awarded the Maxwell Medallion and voted "Best Children's Book" by the Dog Writers Association of America. Start Off on the Right Paw expands the message of not judging dogs, people or anything by outward appearances.