All language subtitles for +Happy.Howlidays.2024.1080p.WEBRip.x264.AAC-[YTS.MX]

Mia.

Don't think I don't know what you're doing.

What? Is it so wrong

to get a jumpstart on the holiday cookie swap?

More like grabbing all the cookies now,

so that you don't have to participate

with everyone later...

or adhere to the dress code-- here.

I thought "festive dress"

was more of a suggestion than a rule.

Not when it comes to Christmas, my friend.

So, I just got invited to the raclette tasting menu

at the new restaurant on Union.

Come, be my plus-one?

Wow. Um...

You know, as cheese-rific as that sounds--

Come on, Mia!

Don't yuck my yum.

It's 12 days until Christmas,

and you know how the boss gets

about keeping the website timely and current.

I am the boss, but your friend first.

All the more reason for me to work harder,

so that I'm not accused of nepotism.

And, as much as I love having you here...

the reclusivity thing is a little concerning.

You don't go out. You're not meeting anybody.

Have you been outside?

It's cold!

And it's usually rainy.

What are you gonna do?

Hide... forever?

Of course not! Of course not.

But that won't stop me from hiding for now.

Mm-hmm.

I'm watching you.

Hi!

Hi, Mom.

I would love to chat,

but I am so busy at work right now.

Ah! Okay, just one quick thing.

I just need your flight information.

Yeah, about that--

I don't think I can come home for Christmas this year.

You're not coming home?

- Oh! Hi, Dad. - Hi.

Mia, this-- this is very disappointing.

Your mother and I finally have a break--

Yeah!

...And we would like some family time.

You know, as good as that sounds,

it's just so busy here right now,

and it's, frankly, a horrible time to travel.

Don't you work in the travel industry?

Yes! Which is why I know how bad it is.

Okay, excu-- honey, move, please.

Move.

Honey, listen. This has gone on long enough.

Okay? We really need to talk.

Sorry! I gotta go.

But I will call you guys later, 'kay?

W-What?

- Mia-- - Okay! bye!

Oh! Hey, buddy!

It's okay. It's okay.

Please don't bite me.

Here.

Here.

Hey, sweetie.

Yeah, over here.

There you go. Okay!

You're free!

Seriously.

There's a whole world to explore.

Sky's the limit!

Okay.

No.

Flash those brown eyes all you want,

but I can barely take care of myself.

Okay.

But we're not making a habit of this.

You stay right there, I'm gonna go grab us some--

No, no, no!

Wait--

Towels.

So what's your story?

I mean, you had to come from somewhere.

What, cat got your tongue?

Tch.

Okay... I get it.

You're the strong, silent type.

Well, my story

is that I'm not really a dog person.

I mean, not that I'd actually know,

because I've never had a dog.

Or a cat.

Or... a pet of any kind.

Well, you know what? That's not entirely true.

I had a goldfish once--

- ...and let's just say,

it did not end well for Huck Finn.

No, the rest is mine.

Are you kidding me?

Okay, that's it!

There's only room for one hot mess here,

and I was here first!

Please let that be water.

No! No, no.

Okay, no!

Okay, give-- give it to me.

No.

Seriously?

Ser--

It's no personal.

Come on.

Don't give me that look.

Trust me--

this is better for the both of us.

Come on.

Okay... hmm.

Come on.

I don't know-- - Hi! Um, I--

I'll be right with you.

There's some pretty big gaps in this fence.

My neighbor said he'd get those fixed.

- And you believe him? - Uh...

You'll be at work for how long?

We're putting in a doggie door,

so he can come and "go" as he pleases.

Not if you just used weed killer.

My son can also help walk him.

Your son?

He's not listed on your application.

Yes, well...

he's eight.

Uh, excuse me--

You're supposed to list all residents in your household.

Uh, excuse me-- I just-- I need to just drop him off.

Did you just say "drop off"?

That's a dog,

not a sweater you drop at a dry cleaner.

Yeah, well, fine, I mean,

I know there's no disputing it's a dog,

I just-- I really have to get to work,

- so if I could just leave-- - You know what?

Why don't I fill that out...

again...

and bring it back.

Sure.

Or-- you could take this dog. You can have him right now.

No. No!

That is not how this works.

really need to go.

Please don't leave me.

Sorry!

All right.

All right, no microchip...

no collar.

Looks like he's been on his own for a while.

But you'll still take him?

Can't. We're full.

You made me wait all this time to tell me no?

Okay, I'm trying to do a good thing here,

and you're making me feel like I'm doing a bad thing,

because I'm unable to take care of a dog.

Maybe you're feeling guilty.

Not at all.

You sure?

You know what? Seriously?

I'm just gonna take him somewhere else.

That's fine. Let's go. Let's go.

You'll get the same answers.

Everything's filled up right now.

Okay, I don't know what you expect me to do.

I am not a caretaker.

For starters, you can give this dog a name...

and by the sound of it,

he's already got a place to stay.

Okay. Wait,

you don't know anything about me or...

Well... thanks for nothing.

This place is terrible.

Zero stars!

- Come on, let's go.

Ooh, let me guess...

another satisfied customer?

People!

Think they can drop a dog off because they had one bad night?

News flash...

not everyone's a dog lover...

and she did rescue the nugget!

Whose side are you on?

Mm, the side that wants to keep the shelter open.

December rent is overdue.

That's how it is with non-profits, sis.

She's still not eating?

No.

My pet psychic was right!

She's heartbroken.

It's hard for both of us,

but I'm not sure what I can do about that.

Maybe take her for a walk.

Yeah... cleanse your auras.

Funny.

I never thought of you as a dog person.

Yeah, because I'm not.

I just found him.

Oh...

But look at that face!

You know, I read having a dog can lower your blood pressure.

Not this one.

He just tore up my entire apartment.

What's his name?

No idea.

You should give him one.

Why? I am not keeping him.

Uh... because it's dignified,

and how else will you get his attention?

Okay, that's a good point.

But no obvious dog names, like Rover or Fido,

or inanimate objects like Gem... or food!

I had a neighbor who named their dog "Fudge".

Definitely not!

You're better than that, and he's better than that.

He kind of looks like that guy from the Gladiator movie.

Gerard?

No, that's Sparta.

Hemsworth?

No, that's Thor. You know, the--

Russell!

Okay, fine!

Until I can find a place to take him,

"Russell" it is.

Great!

Russell can accompany you on your new assignment.

What new assignment?

Go out, find some interesting holiday feels,

write 'em up,

post 'em... voila!

Um, could you remind Boss Isabel

that I'm just a coordinator here.

I don't go out-- I barely even know the city.

Boss Isabel is telling you that we are getting killed

by other Pacific Northwest cities in engagement, so...

we need to step it up.

Friend Isabel would never make me do this.

Friend Isabel gave you this job,

thinking you would use it as a transition

to something more suitable,

but it's been six months, and you're still here.

Boss Isabel wants a holiday segment

up on the site by the end of the day.

Consider it the Christmas spirit getting you back into the world.

I think I'd rather have coal in my stocking.

Noted.

Come on.

Don't hate me.

I'm sorry, bud, but it's better you than me.

What do you say

we kill a bunch of birds with one stone here?

I mean, not literally, because...

I don't know what you're capable of.

Okay, come on.

Okay...

Wait! Russell... Russell! Can you work with me, please?

Russell, work with me!

Where are you going? Stop!

Russell!

Okay, this is pretty cute.

Oh, you met a friend.

Who's this cutie?

Oh, I love this.

Adorable.

Can you not take video of my dog?

You.

You?

You've gotta be kidding me.

What a cruel twist of Christmas fate.

Come on, Russell. Let's go.

Jules, let's go, girl.

What's the point of naming a dog,

if they don't come when you call it?

Does this mean you're keeping him?

No.

And not that it's any of your business,

but I don't have room for anything else in my life.

I'm fairly new to the city.

My job is more demanding than ever right now.

You know what you sound like?

Every other dog owner on the planet.

Seriously?

If I wanted to feel judged, I would just call my parents.

And who do you think you are?

"Ooh, I know dogs.

I like to tell people what to do

and how they should be,

even though my own dog won't come when I call."

Maybe it's best if we don't talk.

Finally, we agree.

- Fine. - Hmm.

And this is my park.

Oh, wow!

Unpleasant, arrogant, and territorial.

There are plenty of other dog parks.

Marymoor, on the Eastside, is right by the river.

Golden Gardens and Magnuson both have dog beaches.

Is there any dog place in the city you don't know?

Doubtful.

Well, if it means never seeing you again,

they all sound great.

Okay. Hey, Russell.

Let's go.

Come on.

Come here.

Let's get out of here.

Russell!

Oh, great. Now what?

Unbelievable.

Okay.

You've been holding out on me!

What?

"Pawsome Christmas" is a hit!

Wait... really?

It's everything people love--

Christmas, dogs...

romance.

I don't get it.

Doesn't Seattle have more dogs than children?

Whatever the reason,

it has boosted site traffic 25%

Oh!

When are these two love-dogs seeing each other again?

-"Again"? - Yes!

This could be the holiday love story of the season.

It's the magic we've been searching for.

Yeah. No, I'll-- I'll keep searching.

No. I don't care what it takes--

I want more content with these two cuties.

Much, much more.

Is this different food?

No!

Is this a different dog?

Because,

the last time I saw Jules, she was on a hunger strike.

I don't know,

she just woke up with an appetite.

It's like Christmas came early.

What changed?

I mean, she was exhausted from playing at the park yesterday.

Whoa, playing?

Oh! She must be feeling better.

And remember

that really annoying woman that came in yesterday?

Mm...

dark hair, plaid jacket...

muddled aura, but super-cute dog?

She wasn't wearing a plaid jacket.

She is now.

Wait, what?

Can I help you with something?

Okay, this is just the cutest!

I don't remember giving permission

to use my dog's likeness.

Oh, come on, Max!

You gotta admit-- it's pretty cute.

So it would just be more things like this--

photos, videos,

telling their holiday story by way of the city.

Does this mean you're keeping Russell?

Well... n-no.

Don't you think he deserves to know

where you stand in this relationship?

No.

I'm not working with anyone this condescending.

Ho-ho! Excuse me! I'm condescending?

Okay, what if...

Mia agrees to foster Russell

until he finds a permanent home?

And, in exchange...

Jules gets a playmate,

and Mia gets her content.

I can do that.

And... if Mia posts their story to her site,

Puptown might get more awareness,

and that means more adoptions.

So, they'd hang out...

which means we'd have to hang out...

through Christmas.

Yes.

No.

Bro!

Look at them.

Jules already said yes.

If this is gonna be a thing,

I need to know Russell is safe and taken care of.

What does that mean?

I need to check out where he lives.

Come over to my house?

I mean, we don't even know each other!

It's not a date, it's an inspection.

Yeah, well, I don't think you'd even know the difference.

You don't agree, I don't agree.

Okay, fine. Fine.

Okay.

First things first--

and I can't believe I have to say this...

but we don't use a belt as a leash.

But it's Italian leather.

Leash... collar...

food.

What's the bed situation?

Uh, he had this pillow thing...

until he ate it.

Well, he's a dog,

and you surround him with goose feathers.

What'd you expect?

Okay...

Dogs are an investment.

Uh-huh.

This one's on me.

For your Christmas tree.

Oh, I don't have a tree.

I mean, it's just me, why decorate for the holidays?

It's not just about you now, it's also about Russell.

What if he doesn't celebrate Christmas?

I don't wanna presume.

Look at him--

clearly, Russell is a holiday dog.

Time to deck some halls.

- Okay. - Go ahead.

This place is a death trap.

Toxic.

Possibly fatal!

It's a wonder anything survives here,

much less a dog.

He's got a roof over his head, doesn't he?

So, where you from?

Miami.

How long you been here?

Uh, about six months.

Hmm. Any family nearby?

Like... siblings, or other adults

to enhance his support system?

Nope, it's just me.

Mm. What were you doing before you got here?

I'm sorry.

What does this have to do with taking care of a dog?

Russell needs a stable environment,

which means he needs a stable owner.

Okay, well, then he's in the wrong place.

In the last two years,

I've been a cater waiter in New Orleans,

a bartender in Austin, and a line cook in Denver,

so, it is what it is.

Okay, well, at least he'll be well-fed.

Why Seattle?

Uh, my friend from college lives here,

and it was the furthest I could get away.

Away from what?

From everything.

I think...

I think the tree is done.

What do you think?

Um, where's Russell sleep?

Uh... like, right there.

Uh... no.

What do you-- What do you mean?

Wait, no--

Hold on, wait! Hang on a second. Hey. Hey, hey.

Where are you going?

No, hang on!

Hang on a second, no. No, no, no!

No!

No!

Hold on a second.

No, what are you doing?

Hard no.

This is my room, my space.

The likely reason Russell chewed up your pillows

is because he has separation anxiety.

You have to show that you're here for him,

so your space... is now his space.

Oh!

Okay.

So are you signing off?

For now,

but...

this is still a probationary period.

Seriously?

Do I look like I'm kidding?

No, not even a little bit.

Okay. Well, I held up my end of the bargain,

so, tomorrow, I'm gonna make you hold up yours--

these dogs, in Seattle,

celebrating the holidays.

Can't wait!

Can't wait.

Okay, I'm up.

I'm up.

Hold your horses.

Okay...

that was your warning bark,

not your "I have to go" bark.

Got it.

The landlord just called.

Rent payment is officially overdue.

It's okay-- I just got off the phone

with Mr. Baker's office, and they don't anticipate

any issues with their annual gift.

Whew.

That is such a relief.

Good news!

It's not kennel cough for Luna,

and all the others are up on their vaccines.

Thank you for making the rounds, Dr. Hannah.

Oh, are you kidding?

Spending time with these doggos

is the best part of my day.

I will see you next week.

So...

home inspection went a little late last night.

Place needed a lot of work.

Hmm!

And you're seeing her again today?

No...

Jules is seeing Russell again today.

I'm just chaperoning.

Right. Joint chaperoning.

With snacks for two, I see?

Mia needs all the help she can get.

Okay!

So, it's official.

The city of Seattle is Jussell-obsessed.

Wait, did you just say "Jussell"?

"Jules and Russell," unless you'd prefer "Rules"?

Please, no more rules.

Well...

I have a great idea to build on Seattle's obsession.

There's this POV app where fans can go to our website,

which turns your phone into a sort of disposable camera

that allows you to take photos and videos

of Jussell in the wild,

so we can incorporate fans' footage,

to drive even more interactive engagement.

It sounds really cool,

but I can't imagine people being interested in two random dogs.

Have you not seen the comments? People can't get enough!

Of Russell?

Not just Russell-- Jules.

"What's her story?"

"Who does she belong to? Is he cute?"

The fans want to know, and so do I.

- So... is he?

More like bossy and insufferable.

Yeah, but, like, cute "bossy and insufferable"?

No, the kind of insufferable

that sends coordinates instead of an address.

Or...

a man who thinks outside the box.

Izzy!

It's not a date.

It's a work thing that you assigned.

Yeah, but Work Mia

doesn't have to get in the way of Person Mia.

Don't forget--

where's Mr. Bossy-Pants from, where'd he get Jules,

and is there a Mrs. Bossy-Pants in the picture?

Gotta give the people what they want!

Hmm?

So what's your story?

Not sure what my story has to do with anything.

Well, your story is Jules' story,

and the people want to know.

I'm just the tour guide.

Okay.

Well, then, as a responsible foster parent to Russell,

I feel like it's really important

to know who he's spending his time with--

preferably before I die on this hill.

Fine.

Seattle born and raised.

I have a younger sister, Penny, who you met.

Both of my parents are away on a two-month cruise

to Antarctica.

I'm a long-suffering Mariners fan.

You love dogs.

I do.

Why dogs?

Why not cats?

Or bearded dragons?

You ever try hiking with a bearded dragon?

I grew up with dogs.

They accept you for who you are,

and you know exactly what you're gonna get.

The don't lie... and they don't leave.

Are we there yet?

Almost.

Thank Christmas.

Okay, it's just up there.

Come on!

Hold up.

You're telling me that I just hiked two hours for this?

It should be raining marshmallows and candy canes.

Will Ferrell should be dressed in an elf costume,

jumping up and down.

There isn't even any snow!

We don't get a lot of snow in Seattle.

You might have a skewed idea of Christmas...

and hiking.

This was supposed to be

a romantic holiday dog romp through the city.

You wanted a holiday-themed activity for dogs.

Well...

here it is.

Good girl!

Just tie it around?

Yep. Just like this.

So, is that it?

Not exactly.

Wow.

This is so beautiful.

Worth the hike?

Definitely worth it.

So...

Russell's concerned about something.

Oh, yeah? What's that?

Have you ever dated someone new

where, for whatever reason,

they only want to come to your place?

Like, maybe they're hiding something?

Ah, I get it. Say no more-- I'll bring him over.

You will?

Sure.

Oh, you mean, without me?

You said Russell's the one that's concerned, right?

Just say it, Mia.

My boss said that viewers want to see where Jules lives.

And you couldn't ask, because...?

Because...

you have a tendency to say no to most things.

Well, not this time.

Did you just move in?

Um, about four years ago.

What's with all the empty frames?

Um...

Russell, give me the toy.

Russell, leave it!

Hey!

Don't talk to him like that.

Hey, it's okay.

It's okay.

"Biscuit"? Who's Biscuit?

It doesn't matter.

There's certain things Jules doesn't like to share.

Jules and Russell have been sharing toys all week.

What's this about?

You know what?

I think we're done.

Okay.

Text me tomorrow?

No.

I mean the whole thing.

Uh...

Max!

We had a deal.

Hey.

I know you're upset,

but skipping breakfast is not an option.

What if I add chicken?

Just to be clear-- this is not my fault.

This is totally his fault.

He's the one who kicked us out--

without a reason.

She has no understanding of boundaries.

I know what that toy meant to you.

I mean, if they can't even share a toy,

we don't know what's next.

We're lucky we got out when we did.

We should be glad this is over.

We don't need this drama!

We don't need this headache.

I actually feel better.

Don't you?

This is good. Right?

Really?

What now?

"Christmas cheer has run out for our favorite doggie duo.

Russell and Jules have consciously uncoupled.

Please respect their privacy at this difficult time"?

What is this?

Um, only the biggest Seattle break-up

since Bill and Melinda!

I cannot believe she posted this.

It's no one else's business.

So it's true?

What did you do?

Why do you assume this is my fault?

What? Did she put water in the bowl marked "food"?

Did she buy a retractable leash?

I just didn't see a future.

Didn't see one or didn't want to see one?

And did you "cc" Jules?

This is a joke, right?

Turning the best, most heart-warming holiday tale

into the saddest Christmas story ever?

I wish it was.

Mia! What happened?

Honestly, I don't know!

One moment, it was all "jingle bells,"

and the next, we were in the doghouse.

Well, you have to fix it!

I don't think I can.

Sorry, buddy.

I know! Right?

This is why we don't put ourselves out there.

Okay, there we go.

Would you believe a surprise inspection?

Oh, look, Russy--

someone with a lot of nerve just showed up,

and he doesn't even have any treats.

If I had a tail, it'd be between my legs.

Yeah, well, now's not really a great time.

Russell and I are super-busy.

We've got so many holiday activities lined up,

and our social calendar is full.

Let me explain?

I think Russell wants to hear me out.

I think you misheard him.

He's actually telling you to get lost.

Please...

it's not about me-- it's about Jules.

This isn't the first time Jules has been in love.

There was someone else.

Hmm. Let me guess...

Biscuit?

Jules was just a puppy when I rescued her,

so Biscuit was all she knew.

And I assume Biscuit had an owner?

My ex-girlfriend, Amy.

For three years, we were inseparable.

And then what happened?

We broke up last Christmas.

She took Biscuit and moved to L.A.,

along with half our stuff.

Thus, the half-life?

Mm-hmm.

I'm sorry. Sounds rough.

I mean, yeah.

You build a life with someone, thinking they're the one,

and then... they leave.

You don't bounce back from that right away--

if at all.

I mean, Jules certainly didn't!

So I resolved never to let that happen again.

But then, Russell came along...

and the toy--

no, I wasn't ready for it.

But now, without Russell, Jules is back in her funk again.

Russell too!

Zero interest in plants...

pillows.

It's silly, but it's also endearing

that these two souls found each other after all this.

It's almost unfair to get in the way.

So, let's give these dogs a chance.

All we gotta do

is promise not to fall in love with each other,

so that the dogs can.

Easiest terms ever spoken.

Was hard to even say without laughing.

- Ha. - So, agreed?

We'll continue to meet up...

for the dogs' sake.

Put out the press release-- "Jussell" is back!

Oh...

Good boy!

Russell!

Good boy!

Good boy, you did it!

You did it.

Oh! Good boy. Yes!

Come on, girl.

You brought me all the way out here to see a barn?

Where's the Christmas?

I'm sensing patience doesn't come easy to you.

Never had the time for it.

Come on.

Oh, it's good to see you!

Long time!

Yeah. Mia, this is my buddy, Eddie.

The best of the best.

Hi. It's so nice to meet you.

I can't believe that you do all of this

with that.

Well, every artist has their tools.

Mine just requires a little gasoline.

Mia's from the travel bureau--

covering dogs and Christmas in Seattle,

and it would not be complete without her seeing what you do.

Well, Christmas is my busiest time of year.

Animal lovers, like this guy,

can never get enough of their pets.

Haven't seen you in a while, Max.

Haven't been out in a while,

but Mia here has been dragging me all over town.

Well, I mean, the dogs have been dragging us both.

Well, looks to me like no one's getting dragged around

anywhere here.

Well, like he said, it's a work thing.

Right.

We'll let you get back to it.

It's good to see you, bro.

You too.

It was nice meeting you.

You too.

Go get it.

Wow, your friend is really talented.

He sure is.

And sorry if he implied that we were--

A couple?

It's weird, isn't it?

I mean, yeah, we barely even know each other.

I don't even know

how you started running your dog rescue.

Well...

when I got out of the Navy,

I was volunteering at the shelter,

helping to pair dogs with returning vets.

They're very therapeutic...

especially with PTSD.

Sounds like you're really making a difference.

Yeah, it's a big part of what we do.

When the Director retired, the Board asked me to step in.

I know it doesn't look like much.

We have to fight every year just to keep it funded.

But...

it's worth it.

You're lucky...

that you found what makes you happy.

What about you?

I'll let you know when I find it.

What was that?

What was what?

That sound that was coming out of your mouth.

It wasn't angry or sneering, it almost sounded like...

singing...

and not just any song, but a Christmas song.

And Max...

It's good to have you back.

You going to do some yoga?

Uh, no. Thanks to you,

I'm on my way to another excursion with dogs.

Oh!

You wanted it fixed, it's fixed.

You've seen the site.

Oh, I've seen it,

and all the videos people are sharing.

Five days till Christmas

and traffic is higher than ever.

So, I take it he's behaving better?

Uh, yeah.

He's definitely a lot less bossy and insufferable.

I was talking about Russell.

Right! Yeah. Him too.

Uh-oh, Mia.

You're not catching feelings, are you?

What? No, absolutely not.

Because it would be totally okay.

I mean, you have to admit, he's not bad to look at.

It's hard to notice, with the barking.

I wasn't talking about Russell.

Neither was I.

But seriously, though, you seem less insufferable, too,

and I am all here for it.

We're almost there.

Seriously?

Just trust me, all right?

Not everyone gets a chance to see this.

Yeah.

That's because it's a place people go in

and never come out.

It's true.

Wow, it's amazing!

They call it the "True Love Christmas Tree".

It's a little hard to find,

because they move it somewhere new every year.

Why do they make it so hard to find?

They say that's how love works.

I guess you gotta get lost sometimes

before you find it, or it finds you.

Some people never do.

Oh! I had Eddie make these.

Oh.

That's surprising and thoughtful.

Look, I know I haven't seemed like the biggest fan

of this whole Russell-and-Jules thing, but...

I've really enjoyed myself these past couple days.

I know Jules has, too.

Seeing her with Russell, it's like...

maybe there's hope.

Watch.

They complete each other.

It's cheesy isn't it? I knew it!

No.

No, it's really beautiful.

I love it.

Uh-oh!

Oh, my gosh!

Oh, my gosh.

Okay, inside. Inside.

Oh, it's cold.

You deal with the dogs,

and I'm going to get changed and get you something dry.

- On it. - Okay.

Okay, come on, guys.

Right here, right here.

Yes.

Okay. This should be clean.

What do you want me to do with this?

I-I'm sorry, what?

My shirt?

Can we stick it in the dryer or something?

Oh! Yeah. Of course.

And maybe I can put on that one?

Absolutely. Yeah, you should definitely put that on.

- Thanks. - Yeah.

Is this where you went to school?

Yes, it is.

What'd you study?

Biochem.

Okay! Didn't see that coming.

Yeah. Well, that was... the old me.

You expecting someone?

Uh, not that I know of.

Ah!

Mom! Dad?

Surprise!

Uh, what are you guys doing here?

Uh, well, when you said

you couldn't come home for Christmas,

we decided to come to you.

- Whoa! - Oh, no!

- Wait, Jules. - Hey...

Oh, my. Does he bite?

And, uh-- And you are?

Max Covington.

So nice to meet you, Mr. and Mrs. Park.

Oh. it's actually "Doctor--"

Sorry, Dr. and Missus--

- Uh, no. - No.

"Dr. and Dr."

That's a lot of doctors.

- Yeah. - Yeah.

So, uh, you, uh, went to school in Miami as well?

Oh. No, this is Mia's.

- Is it? - Huh!

And he was just leaving. Right?

Right! I'm sure you guys have got a lot to catch up on.

- Nice to meet you both.

Come on, Jules.

- Yeah.

- Come on. - Okay.

I'll see you later?

Yeah, I'll see you later.

Oh... Max seems nice.

Yeah. We're... colleagues.

Oh, colleagues who share clothes?

We were working,

and then, it just started raining, so...

- Hmm. - Hmm.

It doesn't matter.

Ahem.

Didn't know you were a dog person.

Oh!

Yeah, well, it's just until I can find him a permanent home.

- Oh. - Oh.

Frankly, I'm really surprised to see you guys.

Oh. Well, um...

we just wanted to see how you were, darling.

Um... and can you blame us, the way things were left?

Yeah. Well, you have nothing to worry about.

Look, I'm... doing great.

- Hmm. - Oh...

This is, um... Great. Great.

Great.

Super-great.

Uh, you know what?

I'm gonna just take a minute. I'll be right back.

- Whoa! - Oh!

Oh, my god! That is a lot of hair.

That is a lot of dog.

I'm worried about her.

Jim, we promised we wouldn't overreact.

I think our reaction is appropriate,

given the situation.

She just seems so lost.

Any luck?

No coffee.

Ohh! No? Not even instant?

No.

I wonder if Mia's up yet.

- I need coffee.

Our daughter loves her bed more than life itself.

You can say that again.

Morning! - Oh!

What have you got there?

Good morning.

Russell had to go out, so I grabbed us some breakfast.

Oh!

Chai for you, Dad.

- Thank you very much. - How thoughtful.

- Low-fat, you remembered. - Of course.

Oh, and I got you your favorite--

everything bagel.

You are the absolute best.

Gluten-free, I suppose?

Yeah.

Oh, wow. Well... thank you.

Um, cheers.

- Cheers. - Cheers.

Whoops.

]

Here...

Ooh!

Here we go. - Okay.

Your parents didn't want to share

in the golf festivities?

They opted for the Diving Santa at the aquarium instead.

I'm gonna meet up with them later.

Too bad. They're really missing out.

I mean, honestly, it's probably better this way.

They're both doctors

who've dedicated themselves to saving lives,

and here I am,

chasing dogs around in argyle sweaters

in between "six geese a-laying" and "seven swans a-swimming".

Still, though, they have to know

you're doing something good.

I don't think they see it that way.

To them, I'm just a giant disappointment.

I can't imagine that's true.

They love you. They're your parents.

Otherwise, they wouldn't be here.

I know they love me, but the reason they're here

is because they're worried about me.

Worried? About what?

Aw, it doesn't matter.

Come on.

Clearly, it does matter.

Hey.

Okay, how do I explain this?

My parents aren't the only doctors in the family.

You're a doctor?

Yeah.

I was.

What happened?

It was a crazy night at the hospital.

This patient came in with stomach pains,

and didn't have insurance,

and they asked her to wait in the hallway,

and so I had just been rushed into an emergency surgery,

and when I came back out...

...she was still sitting in the hall,

but her skin was jaundiced

and her pulse was barely readable...

and it turns out she was internally bleeding

the entire time.

So, I rushed her into surgery, and...

By then, it was too late.

She died on my table,

and then...

I got reprimanded for operating without authorization.

That's the night I left...

and I never went back.

I'm sorry.

Yeah.

I became a doctor 'cause I wanted to save lives...

but I can't do that

with one hand tied behind my back

by a system that's broken.

So that's why you're still searching?

Mm-hmm.

I mean... you spend your entire life

working towards that one goal and that one dream,

only to get there and realize

that it's not what you thought it would be.

So, yeah, I...

I don't know what to dream about next.

Is everything okay?

Yeah. Yeah.

Really? You don't look okay.

Listen--

Hey, Max, if you have to go do something,

totally go.

It's... It's fine. I'm good.

It was also kind of freeing, just saying the story out loud.

I'm sorry.

Hey, it's good.

I should probably go meet my parents, anyways.

I'll call you later?

Yeah.

Okay.

Bye.

Come on.

Oh, and that Diving Santa was something else.

Wasn't it, honey?

- Mm-hmm. - Yeah.

Oh, and I got you a little something.

Ha-ha!

A hat?

Yes!

Just a little something to remind you of Florida.

Mom...

Yeah!

Yeah.

We're just a little bit worried about you, sweetie.

All the way out here, away from everything, really,

and doing who knows what?

Can't we just be together,

and have me worry about my own life, please?

Um...

You should--

you should tell her.

Tell her.

Tell me what?

Your mom and I are gonna retire.

Mm-hmm.

And we would like you to take over the practice.

What part of "I don't want to be a doctor anymore"

are you not getting?

Everyone has setbacks, kiddo.

What's matters is how we get through them.

And it would be your own practice.

You could run it however you want--

make all your own rules!

Oh, okay. So this is why you're here.

You are a gifted doctor, honey,

and we would hate to see you throw it all away

because of one...

unfortunate event.

Mm-hmm.

"Unfortunate event"?

Is that what we're calling it now?

Doctors can't save every life, honey, but we...

we can't stop trying.

Okay, well, if this is the reason

for your little pep talk,

you just wasted a trip.

What did we say?

Okay, let's go.

Obviously, the wrong thing.

Come on, Russell. Let's go.

- That went well... not. - See you at the house.

Mia...

Hi.

I'm so sorry to show up like this.

I just-- I needed space from my parents.

Turns out, the only reason they're here

is because they want me to take over their practice,

and they want me to pretend

like that thing that happened never happened.

Wait, is there another dog in there?

Um... yeah.

Oh, my gosh, who's this?

This is Biscuit.

Oh! Hi!

Wait. "Biscuit"? As in...

Biscuit.

Mia... this is Amy.

Amy... Mia.

Hi.

Hi.

I can't believe I'm meeting the famous Russell in real life!

Oh, you've seen the videos?

Oh, my friend sent them to me,

and Biscuit went absolutely bonkers over them,

so I just knew I had to get Biscuit and Jules

back together for a visit.

Amy's also here visiting family for the holidays.

Well, of course,

but I also think Biscuit really missed his friend.

So, uh, what is the deal with them?

Is this just till Christmas, or...?

I mean, who knows? Right?

Given Jules and Russell's strong connection,

anything's possible.

I'm sorry... is Biscuit okay?

It's just allergies.

But are we sure this isn't, like, a showmance thing?

You know, just putting a couple together

for the publicity and the clicks?

Come on, Ames.

What? You can't believe everything you see online.

I mean, look at them.

It's just like old times, right?

Have you had him checked for psoriasis?

Because that silver patching

is actually a telltale sign in humans.

Well, it's a good thing he's not a human then, right?

Oh, my gosh!

Max, I can't believe you still have this!

Wait, where did we get this again?

Was it, uh-- Was it U Village?

It was the flea market--

- With the actual fleas. - ...That actually had fleas.

I think I should go.

Hey... sorry about that.

She just showed up.

'Tis the season, I guess.

Right.

Your parents!

I'm sorry you're having to deal with that.

Mm. Yeah.

I mean, it's been a long day.

Yeah. But I'll see you tomorrow?

For the Santa's Helper 5K?

Honestly, you really don't have to.

But I want to.

And Jules is looking forward to it, too.

Okay, yeah.

- Okay? - I'll see you tomorrow.

All right. Bye.

Hi, Mom.

Hi.

Oh! Um, been watching your videos.

I can see why they're so popular.

The dogs are adorable together.

Warm and festive.

And... well, that Max isn't hard to look at, either.

Yeah.

So... what happens after Christmas?

Do you just give the dog away?

Yeah.

What about Max?

He might go away, too.

Then what?

Mom, I don't know! I don't know.

I'm really sorry about what happened earlier.

It's just, your father and I know

that medicine is something that you loved.

No.

What I loved

was fixing things that were broken,

healing things that hurt.

If I don't have the freedom to do that, I don't--

Sweetheart, I know it's complicated,

but you can still help.

You can still save lives.

I'll go see where your dad is.

I cannot believe Amy had the nerve to show up here!

She wanted the dogs to see each other.

Ha! And you believe that?

She said it was wrong of her

to take Biscuit out of Jules' life.

Yeah. And?

And that we should come visit them.

In California?

You should've seen how happy Jules was to see Biscuit.

Well, I think that she's plenty happy

with Russell...

and Mia.

It's not an either/or.

We're seeing them later this afternoon.

Look...

I just want it on record

that this is the happiest I've seen you in a long time,

and I think we both know why that is.

Hello, hello.

Hope I'm not interrupting.

Your timing is impeccable, Amy.

As is your charm, Penny.

I don't know about you,

but there's only so much holiday baking

with my family I can take.

Would you and Jules

be up for some last-minute Christmas shopping?

Sure.

Ah! I am so productive today.

Leave it to you to keep me on track.

So, um, what do you think about January?

As a month? Or--

For you to come and visit.

Jules would love it.

It's sunshine, beaches for miles--

a much-needed break from the rain and the cold.

- Amy-- - Just...

hear me out.

You know that moving to California

had always been my dream,

so when I got the job in L.A.,

it felt like everything I wanted.

But as great as this new life has been,

I realized that it is not everything,

because it's missing you...

and Jules.

It's been a over a year, Ames.

I know, but we're so good together, Max--

us and the dogs.

I guess what I'm asking for is a second chance.

Hey, Max.

Hopefully you're on your way,

because the race is about to start,

and the Santas are getting restless.

Oh, no!

Come on, girl.

I was doing fine in my own little world,

taking care of myself--

which is hard enough, I might add--

and then Russell shows up,

and I was trying to do a nice thing--

you know, be a good citizen--

but not according to Max,

who comes into my little world, all bossy and annoying,

and takes me to go see that stupid tree...

What tree?

The one that's hidden in the middle of the forest.

Max brought you to the True Love Tree?

Mia, he likes you.

No. He was doing it for Jules and Russell.

Oh, no! You like him.

No, I don't.

It's just an assignment.

Then why are you getting all worked up?

Because I got caught up in the story,

and I started to picture a life here in Seattle.

I even started to like the rain.

I don't know. Maybe my parents are right.

Maybe I... gave up my whole life,

for what?

I just need to get back on track.

Yes, you're the one.

- So much hair, Russell!

You need to get a trim!

One, big beautiful dog. Yes, you are!

- Yes, you are. - Hi.

- Sweetie, hi! - Hi, honey!

Glad you're here.

Yeah.

Do you need to get that?

- Uh... no.

It's nothing.

Everything okay?

Yeah.

I've been thinking about what you said,

and maybe you are right.

Maybe I was just running away from life...

from the career that I worked so hard for.

Wait a minute.

Does this mean you're coming home?

Uh, well, I-I still need time to tie up some loose ends.

Yes! Best Christmas ever.

- She's coming home, buddy.

- I'm so happy. - Oh.

Uh...

Did you hear that?

She's coming back to Miami.

What are you doing here?

Can we talk? Please?

Yes, I was with Amy and Biscuit,

but I came as soon as I realized.

Hey, you don't owe me anything, Max. Okay?

It was just a stupid race.

Don't say that.

It's true.

If anything, it just helped confirm my decision.

What decision?

I'm going back to Miami.

Wait, what?

Back to the thing you moved across the country

- to get away from? - Yeah.

Don't stop searching for happiness

just because you haven't found it yet.

Yeah, well, sometimes,

you have to make the most of what you've been given.

Sure.

You keep everybody at arm's length,

out of a fear of getting hurt.

Fair enough...

but at least I own it.

Bye, Max.

Max?

I'm not in the mood right now, Penn.

It's Mr. Baker.

Oh.

Mr. Baker, glad to hear from you.

I'm sorry, what?

But your office said--

Times are tough, of course.

Yep, Merry Christmas to you, too.

They don't have the funds to make their donation...

which means we're not gonna make our year.

Meaning...

we lose the rescue?

You're mad at me.

No.

I was supposed to have a happy holiday ending

for Russell and Jules, tag all the businesses...

make it a holiday love letter to the city.

Boss Izzy would've fired me by now.

But Friend Izzy feels bad for pushing you

outside your comfort zone in the first place.

Seeing how miserable you are

makes me wish we had never done this.

No.

It's exactly what I needed--

to open up...

and I'm really grateful for that.

You're a good boss, Izzy,

but you're an even better friend.

Mm.

Or maybe I'm just the fool

who wants to still believe in love and hope at Christmas.

That would be nice, wouldn't it?

So there's nothing else Max can do?

Does he even know you're here?

Oh, no.

I heard things went south with you two.

He's actually taking it as a sign

that he should move to California.

California?

But his entire life is here.

Everything he loves is here.

Right?

But...

at this point,

we don't even know if Puptown's gonna make it

to the end of the year.

Okay, so you want me to help get the word out,

to find these dogs a home?

I just figured

since Jussell has such a huge following...

I have a better idea.

A fundraiser?

I need to finish my job, and you need to save yours,

so this is a way to combine both.

How's that?

Well, people are expecting another Jules-and-Russell post,

and my boss wants me to tag all of the businesses.

I figured we could invite the entire community to join,

and make it an adoption fair as well.

People are invested in Jussell,

and this will help give them a chance

to save the place where they first met.

Why are you doing this?

Because.

I know how much Puptown means to you,

and it's a huge part of who you are.

I'm not gonna let you let that go.

What do we have to lose?

Remind me to tell you

that I'm mad at you for going behind my back.

You're welcome.

So... what do you say?

Holiday Rescue Operation?

"Operation: Holiday Rescue"?

"Operation--"

"...Howliday Rescue!"

Okay!

And about what was said the other day--

Hey, we were both upset.

But we should get started,

if we want to be done in time for Christmas Eve.

It's time to deck the halls.

Go put these everywhere.

- That looks good. - Yeah.

Okay, great.

Hi!

Thank you so much for being here.

Of course, honey.

Hi.

Oh! Hi.

So, it turns out you were right--

Biscuit has psoriasis.

Oh. Well, I'm glad you caught it early.

No, you caught it early.

So, how can I help?

Here you go.

You had time to put together a reel, as well?

Uh, this was Penny's doing, actually.

Between all the footage,

she said she had enough

to "highlight a compelling love story."

I can't believe it all came together.

I know. It's not bad for a last-second effort.

I know you don't think you're making a difference,

but that's all you've been doing since the first day I met you.

Okay!

We ready to do this?

- Yeah! - I think so.

This is gonna be amazing.

Let's go.

We are gonna raise a lot of money with this.

- Thank you. - Happy to help.

You're really good with your hands!

I'm here to adopt.

Hi. So, I--

No need. My name is Troy, and I already know the drill.

I have a lovely three-bedroom

with a fully-enclosed 942-square-foot backyard,

natural grass-- no pesticides or weed killers.

Dog door already installed.

I work from home, as does my partner, Dale,

who is very active.

Maybe not as active as you, but still,

he will take the dog on daily runs.

I will come and take the dog to lunch every day.

We're both committed to being

the best dog parents we could possibly be.

Troy!

Oh, no. Did I miss something?

The most important thing.

Are you gonna love this dog with all your heart?

Yes. Of course.

We're gonna smother it with love.

Okay, you're good to go.

Wow.

You're a lot nicer than people say.

Thanks?

You're welcome...

Mr. Christmas.

Let's take you to meet Dexter.

Yeah! Oh, boy!

Okay. They're the cutest.

Yeah.

Yeah, they are.

Why do you look like you just swallowed a lump of coal?

Penny wants me to make a speech,

she says "it's what normal people do."

Yeah, but you're not normal people.

Exactly!

Last time I made a speech, I lost my lunch.

Before we announce the winner of the silent auction,

we are going to have a few words

from the Director of Puptown himself--

Max Covington!

Yeah!

I'm Max Puppington.

I mean Covington.

The Director of Puptown Rescue.

I would like to thank myself--

I mean, I would like to thank you all--

Thanks, Max,

for pretending like you suck at public speaking

and forcing me to come up here.

I get it, you know?

I've been rejected from Puptown,

and Russell was turned away.

- What?

I know... right?

Who gets rejected from a rescue?

Max wouldn't let me give Russell up,

and what I thought was going to be the worst thing

that could possibly happen to me

actually turned out to be the best.

Russell introduced me to things, places...

people I would have never met otherwise,

and changed my life in ways I could never imagine.

See, I didn't think

that I had room for anything else in my life...

and now I can't imagine my life without him in it.

He got me out of my head...

...had me open my heart,

and made this cold, wet, gray place feel like home.

How could I possibly give that up?

Which is why...

I've decided

to officially adopt Russell.

So, I guess my takeaway this holiday--

or, I mean, "howliday" season...

...is that we should take a chance on ourselves

and each other.

Make room for others.

Find the thing that makes you happy--

because it can change your life...

and it certainly changed mine.

Amy, hold up.

Um...

What a day.

Yeah.

Listen, Ames, about California--

Your life is here,

and I don't have a right to ask you to leave.

It's nice to see you so happy, Max.

I truly want the same for you, too...

and this doesn't mean

that Jules and Biscuit can't stay in each other's lives.

Sure.

Yeah, they can FaceTime.

Bye.

All right.

This is it. Make it or break it.

Okay.

I'm not great with numbers.

Does someone want to tell me what that means?

We're still really short.

Max, I'm really sorry.

It's not all lost.

Some of the dogs got adopted...

like Russell.

Yeah.

We can just use this money

to resettle the dogs we still have.

Um...

well, maybe this will help.

Will this cover the difference?

And then some!

I don't know what to say.

Thank you.

We're very happy to help.

Dad...

When you said you didn't want to be a doctor anymore,

we worried that you were turning your back on your gift.

But then, we saw you with Russell and all of this,

and we realized that you are saving lives.

And we couldn't be more proud.

Group hug, come on.

I love you.

- Aw, we love you, baby. - We love you, too, sweetheart.

I guess this is it.

I guess so.

Well, I think we get another point

for not giving up, right?

Yeah.

Hey.

Thanks again.

For everything.

Yeah.

Well... I should probably get back to my parents.

Hey, Russ. Let's go.

Russell, come here.

Okay, good boy.

Goodnight.

Hey, Mia?

Yeah?

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas, Max.

- Merry Christmas. - Merry Christmas.

I'm glad we came here.

Oh! Good morning, sleepyhead. Merry Christmas!

- Merry Christmas, honey. - Merry Christmas.

Sorry I wasn't up sooner.

Rough night?

Ohh...

Cheers.

Yes! Cheers.

Cheers.

Listen, I can't thank you enough

for what you did to help the rescue,

and for being here

and celebrating Christmas together...

...but I'm not going back to Miami.

- We know. - Yeah.

Pretty clear to us

that you've created this beautiful life here,

and we just want you to be happy.

So, I've been thinking

about what we talked about last night--

about saving lives,

and I still wanna do that, but with animals.

You want to be a vet?

Wow!

What do you think of that?

Oh, we think--

I think you'll be extraordinary!

- Extraordinary. - Really?

Yeah!

So...

is that all you want, Mia?

No.

Come on.

Hey, come on, girl.

I know, I know.

I know.

Jules, wait!

Russell, wait!

- You... - You...

What are you doing here?

You first.

I came here to find you.

Same.

Don't go.

I know we promised we weren't gonna fall in love,

but all I know is, I love Jules...

and Jules loves Russell.

Somehow, somewhere...

I fell in love with you, too.

Don't go, because--

I'm not going.

I found what makes me happy.

It's you...

and the dogs--

all of it.