What does Little White represent to Zhao in the short-story, To the Dogs?

For Zhao, Little White symbolizes love and longing. His nightly interactions with the dog bond the two together. Zhao believes that the dog sees and understands him. Therefore, their interactions inspire Zhao's nostalgia and emotionality. Indeed, Little White resembles Zhao in appearance and demeanor. The dog's attachment to White Beauty also mirrors Zhao's attachment to his home and family. Ultimately, Zhao must kill Little White, and thus his own love and longing, in order to stay alive.