inkblot11 Review of Miracle Dogs

Miracle Dogs (2003 TV Movie)

Doggone it, families will love this one, has cute critters and a sweet tale!

[7/10 · 8 April 2014]

The Logan family, Terri (Kate Jackson), Dr. Ben (Ted Shackleford) and young son Charlie (Josh Hutcherson) have just made the move from Colorado to Cleveland! There were good job opportunities at the famous Clinic so they go. But, Charlie has the most difficulty, leaving his friends behind. Also, the rented house they inhabit won't allow pets. This is most upsetting, since Charlie immediately rescues a dog by the side of the road. The kindly vet has to amputate one of the canine's front legs and tells Charlie he will keep him at the animal hospital as long as possible. Ben even tells Charlie that they will try to find a new house soon. But, knowing the dog he names Annie deserves better than this, Charlie makes off with her and hides her in the basement of the Cleveland Clinic! A gruff but kind janitor (Stacy Keach) becomes the lad's partner in secrecy. Soon, Charlie lets the dog "loose" at night on the clinic's floors, where they sick folks start to make miraculous improvements, even a grouchy, rich cancer-stricken lady (Rue McClanahan). Dr. Ben, who is part of the research team can't believe it. But, staff reports sightings of the dog at various times, even though he disappears before they can catch him! Oh, and one more thing. The vet told Charlie that Annie probably had a litter of pups somewhere, before surgery, cause she had the look of a nursing mother dog. Sure enough, Charlie finds the pups in the woods and these little charmers start to make the rounds at the Clinic, too. Can this secret operation last forever? What a fine family flick this is, with a sweet story, lovable dogs, a great cast (how nice to see and hear Jackson), and plenty of fun. Keach makes a strong impression, too, while gals, here's your chance to see the now young adult idol, Hutcherson, as a young boy. Doggone, don't wait. Everyone will enjoy Miracle Dogs!