In human years he was almost 84, but when we brought home a new pup he became a puppy himself. He traveled with me across this country and back. He seemed at home in the Rocky Mountains; he chased deer, bathed in rivers and never complained about the cold. He was always there for me as I moved in and out of relationships. He was a lover of those I loved and scared off those I didn't care to know.
So when the time came I held his head and said good-bye. Once he was gone I removed his collar and hung it from my rear view mirror. He travels with me wherever I go, his tags making that familiar sound. Not a day goes by that he is not in my thoughts and I know when my time comes he will meet me at the door or I won't go through it.
I wish the pup (now almost 2) had learned more from him, but even if he had he could never be Baby.
He was a great comfort and the memories of him are a comfort still.