It is never easy parting with your beloved dog, even tho you know it is old, perhaps suffering, and will be running freely on the other side of the rainbow bridge- - but they are still with you, in your heart, in your memory; sometimes you just miss seeing them as they follow you through the garden, or on a favourite walk - a flicker of movement at the corner of your eye- - then when you feel sad, they are with you, their unseen presence beside you, comforting you till the sadness fades and another dog has taken on their role in your life.
It is so hard to part with them -- but imagine if you had never had them, never experienced their companionship, watched the enthusiasm of their play and chases, or had the privilege of them gazing at your face, laying their chin heavily upon you then leaning against you, totally relaxed and at peace.