It is truly amazing what our dogs know about us. I had a few health problems last year, and my lab Charlie, that is normally borderline ADHD, was unusually calm and attentive. He would come over to me and just nudge my hand or leg with his nose. I was in a lot of pain and he knew it, he wasn't behaving carefree, instead almost being as gentle as he could be with me. He too just wanted to be near me, but not in his normal playful way. When I realized what he was doing, I cried, it was so moving. Even reading your story, I tear up, because I know how very special our companions are.