The loss of a pet is so hard, our pets are our families and the pain can be tremendous. When we lost our ACD mix Maggie I thought we would never be the same, especially my son. He was dating his now wife who promised if they got married and had a daughter she would be named Maggie. I now have a beautiful granddaughter named Maggie... so be careful what names you use. Our Emily is almost 12, is slowing down and we know one day we will no longer have her. She is the smartest, best dog possible and we talk now about what a wonderful life we have given her and she has given us, kind of trying to prepare. I do know that if I make it to Heaven I want to talk to God about wishing our pets lived as long as humans. It is on my list of things to talk about.