Very sorry jimmyt - it is so hard losing a pet - but we put ourselves through it for the joy of having known them. My dog is nearly 14 and I know he won't be with me forever - and I still think about the boy I had before him - and tears come to my eyes when I think of the day he had to be put to sleep - 14 years ago!

and I know that when Chester goes, I will get another - because I can't bear the thought of a house without a dog...