Lost Sophie yesterday at 12.5 years. She had liver cancer. Totally crushed and heartbroken without my best friend and family member. Wrote a really long story about her, but accidentally deleted it trying to insert the photos.

Basically she was great at frisbee, was very sweet, and lived a wonderful life until the end when she didn't feel like running anymore. I will always love her with all my heart and am empty inside without her. She was my first dog. I got her in my early 20s. She was with me during ups and downs and was my only family until I met my wife. I depended on her for emotional strength, and she gave me strength. When I hugged Sophie, I could just feel the overwhelming love radiating off of her. It was love in the purest form and will never die.

The hardest part is my 2 year old asking where Sophie went. I keep telling her that Sophie is at the doctor's, and she says ok. We're thinking about adopting a puppy soon to begin again. Thank you for listening.

Pictures of Sophie

I am so sorry for your loss Mike C, it's a very difficult time. I really feel for you & I know how heartbreaking it is when you've got kids & they need your comfort & it's just so draining to hve to do this for them. I lost my Buddy bout a month ago & he was my first dog too. I had him b4 we had kids. You will know if it's right to get another puppy. Though for you your beautiful Sophie will always hold a very special spot in your heart. There are some gr8 resources on this sight on explaining the loss of a pet to children @ different ages that you might find useful. Only you will know what is the right thing to tell your 2yr old, though right now I'm sure it feels like there is nothing you can say without falling apart your self. Kids are so resiliant especially when so young, if your 2yr speaks they may just be able to do or say something that will make you realise that they understand, kids are really amazing.
The pictures of Sophie are beautiful, I can understand why you feel so bereft. She just speaks so soulfully with her eyes, dog's do that don't they.
Hang in there and check out all the resources on this sight, I know you will find something to help not just you but how to help explain the dissapearance of Sophie to your child.
Go gently this is a very difficcult time for you.
Come back as often as you need to, it will really help you as it has me.
elaine

so sorry for your loss! its so hard to lose our best friend. your sophie was so beautiful. she looks like such a little sweetheart. your heart must be broken. i lost my little best friend not too long ago myself and completely understand what youre going thru. just know that sophie will always live in your heart. she will be a part of your life forever.
you are in my thoughts and prayers.
patricia