A 644

No, and no. Unlike the paladin's special mount the animal companion (no matter whether from a druid, ranger or other class/feat) is not a summoned creature. It is a regular animal that gains bonuses due to the special bond it shares with its master.

If however he would like his animal companion to go to a place distant from him (and possibly stay there) he can order it to do that if he has the means (speak with animals et. al.)

A character with an animal companion can also release the animal from his service and take a new one. This also works should the animal companion die. There is no penalty for having an animal companion die.