He was our big, pure German Doberman, who had a heart as big as his size. He might have looked intimidating to a lot of folks, I imagine a 105 pound dog can do that, but he would never hurt anyone or anything. His heart was full of love and that’s what he gave every minute of every day. We had his love and companionship for almost 14 years but severe arthritis in his spine made life rough for the big guy, especially this past year. He found it hard to walk any distance and needed help to get up or lie down. Finally it was clear he had enough and the look in his eyes said it was time to let him go.

Thanks to a caring and loving Vet, Dr Cheryl L. Clayton, who seemed to love him almost as much as we did, he took his last breath while lying on the living room floor with his family and favorite toys by his side. He is buried in a special spot in the back yard, between the Hummingbird garden and a strawberry patch, where he can always be a part of our lives.

My wife, Marie, and I discussed where would be the best spot to bury Thor when he passed away: Where is the best spot to bury that Special dog? After he was buried, I spent a lot of time wondering if that was where he would have wanted to be. Maybe he would have wanted to be closer to the neighbors, after all, he spent a lot of time in their yard looking for their two female Labs. Maybe closer to the house would have been better, or even out front. But then, does it really matter to a dog where he would be buried or are we humans the only ones concerned about that. Is there really a best spot to bury that Special dog, or any pet for that matter?

Finally, the answer to that question became very clear. Yes, there is a special place, a best spot, to bury that Special dog. A spot where you can call him to you and his presence will not disturb anyone, or any other dog, nearby. That Special Place, that Best Spot, is located deep inside his Masters heart, where he will live and be loved forever. God Bless you Big Guy, we’ll be together again when we meet on the bridge some day. Until then, you are buried in that Special Spot.