RicelandMeadows

                                                   August 20, 2012

     They say that dog is man’s best friend. I have to agree with that statement. A dog only knows one way to love you and that is with its whole being. They are always glad to see you, no matter that you have only been gone five minutes.

     Our dog is now just 14 months old. He is a member of our family. It’s crazy, my wife is not a dog person, but she makes a genuine exception to King. He has won her over too. I am a very lucky guy to have had so many wonderful canine pals.

     King joins a long list of faithful friends. My most recently departed Lucy broke my heart when she died. I guess that opened a place for King. He has become my trusted and loyal partner, not taking Lucy’s place, but rather securing one of his own. He is my buddy that is for sure!

     A young friend of mine has an old dog that is starting to have end of life issues. So far, the dog is in no pain and gets around with a slight limp. It is a fact that their long friendship will end one day soon. I am trying to prepare him for the day when he and his pal have to say goodbye.

     That will be a rough day for sure, but it is part of responsible pet ownership. The tears will flow as his old friend drifts off to an eternal sleep. There will be no tears of shame, but rather tears of celebration, for the times and life they have shared together. A boy needs a dog, just as much as a dog needs a boy. Hang tough my young friend, spend a few more minutes each day petting your old companion… you will be very glad that you did.

     I am not a cat person, but I do have a cat. I think he just lets me stay here to bring him food. He is aloof, friendly, hard-working, but aloof. I pet him and he allows it, unlike King who adores it 😮

     I am a dog person through and through. I don’t want to think about life without a good dog in it. I read somewhere once, and find it to be true…. there is a reason, that dog spelled backwards is … GOD …. nuff said for me!