She no longer hears me and perks up when I pull in the driveway, and the advancing stiffness in her hindquarters reminds me only too well that one day the inevitable will come. Awhile back I saw a magazine on a newsstand that proclaimed why cats were the preferred pet among Americans. Give me a dog, they're a better pet. Ask anyone who's ever owned one. Lassie, Rin Tin Tin, Benji all have exhibited great acts of courage on countless episodes.
Dogs can smile.
They can, I swear it. That is, they're always there for you. Dogs are happy when you're happy and sad when you're sad. I will never forget the two times I actually cried in the presence of my big collie. She was there instantly, nuzzling her snout into my face, consoling me over my grief.