We were lucky to have him for 14 years. He never tried to bite or scratch anyone and he always had an earnest expression on his face. If spoke to him, he answered back as if we were speaking the same language. He also shook hands, sat up and fetched. As soon as I knew his condition could never improve, I did what was best for him so he would not suffer. The last thing he knew was being held and stroked by me and his other family members. His last moments were full of love and peace.