[Vinniedoggy]

We had to put our Guru to sleep this past summer and even though he was 17 years old (not a Yorkie, but a mutt about the size of small golden retriever) and had an awesome life, it was still one of the hardest things we ever had to do. I really think that our only savior was bringing home Alex that same week (we were already in the process of adopting Alex because we knew Guru was nearing the end).

Here's how I look at it - we all know that we will likely live longer than our pets and, therefore, I try to live each day with a "no regrets" sort of attitude. I do my best to give them the best possible life possible, whether that's just spoiling them rotten, taking them on trips, or just having fun with them. That way, when the end does come, I know that I have done everything in my power to give them a good life. In some small way, it helps me get through it. I was worried we would never get past Guru's death; while it's still sad sometimes to think about him and look at his pictures, it's easier than it was initially. And I know we gave him an awesome life, and that makes it all feel worth it.

Also, whenever I lose a dog, I immediately adopt another one. It is something my family has always done, because our feeling was always that if we could help another little dog find his "fur-ever" home, we should do it. It's the best way to honor the memory of a beloved lost pet (IMO).