Dunne 's father initially threatens to kill the dog as punishment .
Much to young Dunne 's relief , the father decides ultimately to spare the dog , which suggests that a similar forgiveness can be extended to Dunne despite his personal and public mistakes .
Dunne 's father initially threatens to kill the dog as punishment , but much to young Dunne 's relief , the father decides ultimately to spare the dog , which suggests that a similar forgiveness can be extended to Dunne despite his personal and public mistakes .