Many people don't understand the bond that can exist between a man and a dog, especially one that he hunts with for years. I have tracking bloodhounds that I hunt criminals and lost people with as part of my job as a Deputy Sheriff in Georgia. My first bloodhound lived eight years and made 65 sucessful cases before he died. I still miss him, and am just as close to the two I have now. My heart goes out to you. Best wishes.

Vapodog,
I'm so sorry for your loss. Our dogs own such a big part of our hearts. Remember the good times and good hunts. Fortunately dogs have souls and go to heaven.
JCN

vapodog,

I have spent the afternoon and evening with my mixed breed chow. She is a wonderful animal that has taught me a lot about loving. I replied to cewe a while ago about his surgery, and when I've been laid low with mine, my dog has been right there by my bed, by my feet with a look of concern and a tail wag. She's nine and blind and can no longer enjoy playing catch with me, but she maneuvers around the house and yard occasionally bumping into something, but not often, climbing stairs and curbs and raising a paw on cue at the command "up." I can empathize with your loss, and respect you for looking on the years that you had together as a blessing. Part of our Thanksgiving grace this year was a plea that our eyes be opened to the possibilities of a glass half full. I hope that the void of losing your hunting companion and friend will be filled by a new pup or other joy. Ku-dude

Vapodog,

I'm sorry to hear that your dog passed away. It's always hard when the time comes, as it does all too quickly with dogs. I often wish my dogs would last as long as I will, and can only hope we'll meet again in the happy hunting grounds one day. We recently buried 2 family dogs (a brother and sister) with only a couple of months inbetween, and I understand the empty feeling you must be having at the moment. One often thinks that a new dog in the future will never be able to replace the one that died, but in time one luckliy grows to love the new one just as much. So in a while, but not rushing it, I'd consider getting a new puppy if I were you.

Erik