Tom, I don't think anyone really "gets" what you're going through unless they've been there. Something about the unconditional love that you get AND give with a dog, well, it's just unlike any other emotion.

I'm right there with you. You met my dog, Shimi, at Moab a couple of years ago. She just had her 14th birthday, and she's gone both deaf and blind in the past few months. I know that we're reaching the end of our time together, sooner rather than later.

Just remember the great times that you shared with Champ. You're right; the Basenji is a wonderful dog. You made Champ's time on Planet Earth so much more rewarding.

I'm grieving with you. Chin up...it's difficult now, but the pain now will NEVER take away from the joy that Champ brought into your life, and you brought into his.

Warm thoughts from Eric and Shimi!