10 years ago I found wandering the streets of Milford a young well mannered rottweiller (no one ever came looking for him). Something about the dog and the way he looked at me told me that he was "special". Taking him to the vets we found out that he probably had hip displasia. We decided that "Carl" was special and so we decided that he would live at the dog pound with us. I had lost my last "school" dog so I thought I would give the children a chance to see a big dog and took Carl. The children instantly took to Carl and Carl took to them. For the last 10 years Carl has gently ruled and protected the dog pound. Carl would walk the volunteers and roll on his back for the frequent school trips, lovingly showing the children how gentle big dogs could be, and not to be afraid. Two months ago Carl started to limp, never a good thing for an "older" big dog. Tests, trips to the vet medication, cancer.
I held my Big Dog in my arms today for the last time as he gently went to sleep, thanking him through my tears for all of his kindness, loyalty, and love as he looked up at me as to say it's ok Rick you people gave me a life that I could and would have never had with anyone else, my work is done here, now quit crying and go find another pup to carry on, I'll be waiting for you on the other side.
Thank you all for allowing me to share this tribute to "our" best friend Carl

