Mark, do not despair about Sprite or you new dog. They age at seven times the rate we do. So, we need to appreciate them seven times more-so. I know it hurts, but this is the natural order of things. I’ve had to put many a dog away. It never get easier but I never forget the tactile feel of petting them (they’re feel is more ingrained in my memory than their image for some reason). So here is a picture of Tycho, my Lab/Collie mix. He’s about 8 years old and had an ACL operation about a year ago. He’s doing great thanks to a great vet surgeon. If you need the reference please don’t hesitate to ask. You are a great guy, a compatriot. And a friend, even though we’ve never met or probably never will. God bless you.

Robert from New Jersey