My dog Duke. Dukey, I usually call him. My god, I have never...

My dog Duke. Dukey, I usually call him. My god, I have never bonded with a dog so much in my whole life, and I have had dogs pretty much the whole way, since I was a little kid.

This dog, though. Man.

He has a heart murmur, just like me. He hates people telling him what to do, just like me. He loves sleeping for most of the day, just like me. We’re simpatico.

He is old. 14-15 years old according to vet estimates. At the end of his life, and I can see it. With dogs, it goes faster. A year ago, he was much better. He is riddled with arthritis. He has cataracts, so his sight is compromised. And personally, I don’t think he can hear very well.

He is a sweetheart tho, and sleeps with me. He is very affectionate, which is uncommon with his breed. I carry him up and down the stairs. His appetite is very good. He has painkillers for his arthritis.

But I know. One day…