A couple of years ago my youngest Cocker Spaniel developed breast cancer. After surgery, we discovered it had spread to her lungs. Her last night, her pain increased to the point where we knew it was time. I took her to the 24 hour vet hospital, and held her as she was freed. I held her mother as she was born, and cleaned her when her mother wouldn't. I bottle fed her, and cuddled her from puppy through sickness. I was the first to touch her, and the last. It was the one of the greatest gifts a merciful god ever gave me. Now her mother is old and tired, but still holding on. Her father has developed tumors, and sleeps most of the time. Every day I hold them, pet them, and play with them as much as they're able. The love and joy they give me every day helps me carry on.