I have found a great deal of comfort in knowing that God made and purposefully loaned me the wonderful creatures that have graced my life. With their passing, they have returned to the only One who loves them more than I do, and I have entrusted them to His keeping.
I am very sorry for your loss.
My German Shepherd was lost to cancer just nine days ago. I had him for only six months but he was a wonderful dog, just like yours was to you.