You have all three lost best friends of the furry type recently. I know how much that loss feels - and you have my thoughts and condolences. I recently lost a good friend of mine also, Buck - who was only 7 years old. He died in my arms. The only one of mine that was immensely protective of me - would attack any strangers coming into the house and the back yard - but also the gentlest of all. So - that is why I haven't said much about it - still hits way too close to home. Buck was a beautiful guy - gentle and loyal.
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good ...