This article was my first early morning read. It brought tears. I could have written, as I can apply all that you are saying to the death of my husband and also to my dogs that have passed. There's always THE most special dog. My first Yorkie passed 1 month before his 14th birthday. I woke up and he was dead on the floor by my side of the bed. I thought I was going to die. I had 3 other dogs at the time. In 2017, my little Shih Tzu died in my arms. I never knew what was wrong with her. She was a rescue, 11 years old. She was a fabulous personality and my Yorkie was a very smart, wise dog. Like an old soul. I miss them all terribly. They were all my family. I had 2 Cocker Spaniels, rescues, and one died on the vet table when we took him for an exam. He raised up and looked at my husband and laid back down and he was gone. They all bring more to our lives then they ever get back. I drew strength from them. Their presence is always felt in the house. You are never alone. And that means so much. I understand your hurt and pain. Thank you for this article. It was very meaningful to me.