THE PRESENCE

Their poodle was 17 years and then some. The veterinarian said he was suffering. I guess they have a license to say that. The owners had an appointment Saturday to have the dog "put to sleep". In a world of soft terms, I guess we don't say, "Have the dog dead".

For all of us who have 'lost' a pet, meaning, a pet has died, we have the pleasure of their presence now and then. It seemed to help her know that Rockey would be around for a long time, just as Tom and I still hear Max on occasion.

Although this note is just about pets, it happens with people too.

Let it happen, you are in the best of company.

e