Man's best friend

Today, the boys and I took Scrap Dog to the beach. Nothing exceptional in that as we've been many times before. But today it was so much more than just a trip to the beach. Three weeks ago I took Scrappy to the vet for a check up after he'd lost his bark and usual zest for life. Although I don't speak Dog and Scraps struggles with English we've always been able to communicate over the years and I knew there was a problem long before the vet confirmed the diagnosis of a tumour to his neck. I am lucky that I haven't had to deal with death during my adult life and I don't really know what I can do for my four legged friend. I do know though that the time will come soon when I will need to act responsibly and make the right decision for him. Just for today it was nice to walk alone along a sandy shore with him by side and giggling boys in the background.

Scraps is more than just a dog, he's been with the boys their whole lives and he's been at my side for nearly a third of my life. I don't mind admitting that I had a tear rolling down my cheek at the thought that he will no longer be around.

A loyal companion until the end. Scrap Dog.