In Owls in the Family, the complicated relationship between people and animals takes the forefront. Farley Mowat presents this dynamic as a complicated relationship that has no absolute rights or wrongs, and in accordance with this approach, the main characters demonstrate a paradoxical mix of kindness and cruelty to the animals around them. The quality of their interaction largely depends upon the specific situation, and whether the humans interpret a given animal’s behavior as being positive or negative. Oftentimes, their tendency to anthropomorphize animal behavior is the deciding factor in how an animal will be treated. Thus, while there is compassion, there is also a tendency toward unthinkingly destructive acts as well.

The most memorable moments of kindness and compassion in the boys’ dealings with animals occurs in their relationship with the owls and the dog, Mutt, for all three animals hold elevated positions over the other pets and grow to become true members of the family. Both Billy and Bruce take care of their dogs and bring them on adventures, and a similar dynamic develops with the owls, especially Wol, who is the most adventuresome. Because of this positive relationship between the boys and their pets, people are kind to them and tend to be fairly forgiving of the trouble they cause.