Solos posted a photo earlier (under a different post) of a beautiful four-legged traveling companion who died suddenly and very recently, and it put me in mind of our recent loss.  

On Valentine's Day, we had to put down our 13-year old pup, Sandy.  Vet thinks bone marrow cancer and she just dealt with it until she couldn't.  She went downhill very fast.  Monday, 10-Feb a nose whistle, late in the day 13-Feb the bloodwork results, Friday, 14-Feb out of strength laboring to breathe, and we did what was necessary, in a heart-wrenching scene.

Sandy was twelve her first time in the canoe (I used to fish a lot and feared getting her hooked - happened to my dad's dog once).  We avoided hot days with her and kept the trips short, but she loved it.  Her last time was in October on a colorful Fall day and a calm lake.  Never once in the entirety of her life did she ever show any aggression to any human or dog.  We should all be able to say that.  

I can't load a photo just now, will try later.  I've got some great pics of her in the canoe too.  Picture a dog that looked exactly like the Grinch's dog (Max).  I miss her more now than I did the day we put her down.  Sinking in I guess.

So - for those who have recently lost your fur-bearing canoe-loving ever-faithful travel companions - I raise a glass, and I encourage you to post a photo of your pal in action.