This is difficult for me to talk about. I'm just now starting to be able.
Sparki (just days shy of his 18th birthday) went to the Rainbow Bridge in January.

Although he was a “bigger boy” (6 1/2 pounds) & never got the chance to be a super star in the dog show ring, Sparki was a super star in our hearts. The girls, my husband, and I will now all miss him dearly. Sparki was always happy. He was such a gentle, loving boy.

Because I was a “show breeder”, I probably should have placed him with another family as soon as I knew he was going to go “oversized” for the dog show conformation ring. However I had fallen in love with him the moment he was born. I then let my heart rule my head. Not everything is just about dog shows and having another #1 winning dog. In fact, my view has always been: pet first; show dog only after that. IMO, being a pet and beloved family member is the most important role in life that any dog can ever lead. All of my AKC Champion and Obedience titled (or not)dogs have fit that profile.

Since he could not be a show dog, I had Sparki neutered. He then went on to live his long life with us as our beloved house pet. Sparki give us many, many wonderful memories. This was his last Christmas. Already missing Puffkin & then Sari, we had no idea that still another loss for us was just around the corner. Things hurts more than I can say.

Hug your fur babies. Treasure each and every moment you have with them because time passes way too quickly. Tomorrow is never a certainty. Not even a single day of tomorrow. So make the most of today.

Here is Sparki 18 years ago: https://pbase.com/britestar/image/11338361 back when I fell in love with him at the moment of his birth.
I was blessed to have him in my life. He gave us much happiness.
Sparki could add light to the darkest of days.

2020-2021 certainly have had more than their share of dark days.