Thirteen-year-old Terrance O'Connell thought his life was over when he met his foster father, Captain Leroy Gonzalez. Although growing up in a family of small-time criminals had its drawbacks, this placement with an old, retired police captain seemed like an unendurable situation. Then Ter met Tooten, Cap's service-dog-in-training. They formed a partnership, sharing the qualities of curiosity, trust, and fool hardiness. Both at home and on their travels with Cap, Tooten and Ter find adventure around every corner.