How does Palmer come up with the name for his pigeon? What do people feel about animals when they name them? How does Palmer feel about his pigeon?

Palmer names his bird Nipper because the bird nips at Palmer's ear each morning. He also nips on the Nerf ball, his toy soldiers, and his books. He is happy with the name he has chosen for his pet. People name their animals when they want to have a pet. Palmer believes that Nipper is now his secret pet.