I and my family are feeling quite devastated now.

I've lost both human family members and elderly dogs in the past, and while it is very, very sad to lose a beloved family member who at least has lived a good long life, it is awful to lose family members many years before their time. On top of that, now we have also lost a family member who was still definitely in the "young" part of her lifespan (our beloved dog-child.)

When you love someone as family, it doesn't matter if they are human or not; what matters is that they love you in return - and dogs tend to do this with all their hearts. For these compassionate intelligent little beings, their whole LIFE revolves around their family, species notwithstanding.

I don't know what to say right now, really. The pain is so acute, so strong. Our whole family - parents, kids, the other dog - we are all grieving so much. At least we have each other to be with at this time.

But none of us wants to celebrate Thanksgiving this year.