I look at that photo, and remember some of the old dogs I've had the privilege to know, and it kinda "gets" me *right there*.
I'm still sad about having to put down a 7 yr old smooth tricolor merle collie in May, but I am at the same time so grateful for having had his sweet, completely guileless company that the little frog in the throat when I think of him is accompanied by a smile, and it makes me appreciate his littermate, and my other dog all the more.
Some folks never have the opportunity to be loved so deeply, and that is their loss.
I've figgered it out, though: we are only blessed with dog's company for their short lives because their love is so strong and intense. Then they go back to our creator with progress reports...
I pity those who mistreat, or cannot understand why we care so much for our animal FRiends.
Nice thoughts.
The dog in the photo was a rescue and she has since passed away. She was not mine but I loved her as a subject, she had the most wonderful face.