Country Life’s Book of Dogs

What is it about dogs? No other domesticated animal displays such love for humans. It seems like, as a dog owner (more like a custodian), whenever you are away for any amount of time and return your dog is so happy to see you like you’ve been gone for years.

Dogs are so expressive and have such diverse personalities. They can brighten up any day and somehow sense when you’ve had a bad day, need some affection and could use a good hug, lick or snuggle.

I’ve had a lot of dogs in my life. Recently I loss what I consider to be the best dog I’ve ever had the privilege of looking after.

Our daughter’s little Dachshund/Shiatsu mixed-breed, female dog Lilly Bear had grown old. It was difficult for her to be around my daughter’s other dog.

Lilly was losing her hearing and sight and was not quit as frisky as she used to be. She was still playful and loved to snuggle. She was my special little girl and I loved her like no other dog I ever owned.

My wife and I took her in for close to three years (my daughter referred it to as a retirement home) but eventually she became weak, developed cancer in her mouth, stumbled a lot, hurt and was misable. Mercifully my daughter took her to the vet to have her put down. I was able to give her one last hug, scratch and kiss. I said goodbye.

It was the hardest thing for my daughter to do. She had had Lilly Bear since she was puppy. We both wept.

I admit I cried (I still do occasionally) and I miss her everyday. My daughter has Lilly Bear's ashes and a small tribute box with her name, a lock of her fur and old collar.

In Rizzoli/Universe’s new deluxe hardbound book Country Life’s Book Of Dogs by author Agnes Stamp and with a foreword from Tony Allcock, every bred of dog is given its due with beautiful color photos, a chronology of its heritage, personality, strengths and more.

Full histories are given along with key moments and observations all culminating in an absolutely wonderful homage to man’s best four-legged friend.

I wish I could still hold Lilly Bear in my lap and flip through the book’s page. I know she would not understand what the book is about. Still she would be a reinforcement of its contents and an example of the unwavering loyalty and love that dogs provide. Rest in peace Lilly Bear.

Colossians 3:14 - And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.