Early Events:
* Arrival of Old Yeller: The story begins with the arrival of Old Yeller, a stray yellow dog, on the Travis family's ranch. He quickly becomes part of the family.
* Old Yeller's Heroism: Old Yeller saves Travis from a wild boar attack, solidifying his place in the family. This establishes his bravery and loyalty.
* Learning Ranch Life: Travis and Old Yeller learn the responsibilities of ranch life, including herding cattle, protecting the family, and facing dangerous situations.
* Protecting the Family: Old Yeller protects the family from a pack of wolves, cementing his role as protector. This also highlights the threat of wild animals on the frontier.
Mid-Story Turning Points:
* The Deadly Disease: Old Yeller contracts rabies, a deadly disease that was common in the time period. This sets up the major conflict of the story.
* The Doctor's Visit: The doctor arrives and informs the family about Old Yeller's condition. The family knows he is doomed.
* Old Yeller's Final Act: Despite his illness, Old Yeller saves the family from another threat (typically a mountain lion or a bear) showing his unyielding loyalty and bravery until the very end.
The Climax:
* The Difficult Decision: Travis, under his father's guidance, must make the heartbreaking decision to put Old Yeller down to prevent further suffering and protect his family.
* The Farewell: The family mourns the loss of Old Yeller, realizing the powerful bond they shared.
Key Themes and Lessons:
* Loss and Sacrifice: The story deals with the pain of loss and the sacrifices that must be made for the well-being of others.
* The Importance of Family: The story highlights the strength and love that a family provides, especially during challenging times.
* Man's Bond with Animals: The novel explores the deep connection between humans and animals, emphasizing loyalty, trust, and companionship.
* Coming of Age: Travis undergoes a significant transformation as he faces difficult situations and learns valuable lessons about life and death.
Remember: These events are the major plot points but the richness of the story comes from the emotional impact of these events on the characters and their relationships.