I don't know the origin of the saying, "A dog is man's best friend", but I have bought into that for many years now.
For those who have dogs for companions, that live in your homes, ride in your cars, snuggle with you on the couch, and greet you with a happy disposition every day, you will know of what I speak.
But, as hard it has been for me, I had to say good-bye to my Irish setter. After about 14 years of life, she just could no longer maintain a quality of life. She was nearly blind, lost a lot of weight, and just couldn't get up or down without difficulty. And still, she loved us up every day, with licks and a wagging tail.
I am just past that 60 mark. I've never been a Rambo, and certainly no war "hero", but I've been around. I've seen war, close up and very personal. I've been in Law Enforcement for more than 15 years, having seen the dead in many settings, by many means. In all my years, two things get to me the most. Dead and/or harmed children. And dead dogs. In many ways, except for children, I like dogs more than most people.
Today, my wife and I said our good-byes our sweet Cali. She was family to us. She was a good dog, and always wanted to see us when we came home. Dogs ARE man's best friend. We'll be seeing you someday Cali.
PS.
We highly recommend pet, particularly dog, adoption. Cali, and her sisters, have all been adopted.
