We have experienced the same sadness and emotional grief that you and Ann are currently going through. Only another dog lover can know the pain one goes through when a beloved pet has passed. We've had to put down three of our family pets during our 50+ year marriage. Now that there are no longer any children in our house, I doubt that we will get another dog. It's too painful to lose them ... even though they gave us great comfort and joy and unconditional love when they were treated just like family members.