Two weeks after my beloved cocker spaniel Silky had to be put to sleep she came home in an urn.

She’s on my dresser with her hair clipping taken from her leg the day she died and her picture beside the urn.

I have loved and lost animals many times, but this one hurts especially deep.

I keep watching for her to be at my side, whether I’m sitting at my computer, in another room or lying in my bed.

I’ve thought about getting a puppy, but it’s too soon. I would only be trying to replace Silky and that wouldn’t be fair to the puppy.

Besides, I’ll never find another dog who is as gentle as she was. She never growled at anyone or anything, and would even stand back to let the cat eat her food before she’d eat. I’d move the cat away and she’d step up to the plate to eat and share her meal with the cat.

She was a once in a lifetime dog, and I miss her terribly.

At least she’s home now.