Anybody who knows me knows how much I love dogs. One of the problems with having dogs, or any animal for that matter, is dealing with the losing them. The last two weeks have been difficult for many of the “dog” folks in my life.

Last week, my sister lost her beloved dog Buffy, who died at the young age of eight. Buffy meant everything to my sister. She loved that dog with all of her heart and that dog loved her right back.

Just a few days before, my friend (and veterinarian) Brek, lost his Great Dane mix named Harriet. Harriet was a special dog for many reasons and it broke his heart to lose her. I was touched by the email he sent out that said simply, “She died on her favorite bed, on the deck in the warm sunshine, with her head in my wife’s lap.”

I’ve lost one dog in my adult life, my Chocolate Labrador named Gordy. I had to have him put to sleep when he was only three due to a problem with his brain. It was the most heart-wrenching thing I’ve ever had to do. I dread the day that I have to go through it again.

I’m always amazed at the bond between people and their dogs. They really do wrap themselves around your heart.

–Pete