Sorry for your loss. I know how much a dog means to a family, I had to put down my Yellow lab after 12 years in Jan 2000. Within a week I bought a Black Lab, she is now going on 14 years old (born Nov 1999) She is watching me type this looking at me with her gray muzzle. I know her time is coming and it will be sad. I've been around dogs all my life and I know they are only in our lives a short time. After she passes I will find another Lab, a yellow lab this time. Cherish the memories of all the good times and hunts. The sadness will pass and there maybe a new puppy in your future.