My friend’s family and my sister’s family each lost beloved dogs this week. One was 11 years old, the other was 6 and both were heartbreaking losses. We never know how much time we have and we always wish we had more.

Trish and I have gone through this grief a couple of times. Even if you prepare yourself, it’s still heart wrenching when the moment comes.

Our first husky Schobel was nearly 10 when we adopted her. We knew adopting a senior husky was a risk and felt blessed to have over 4 years with her. Even at the ripe age of 14, it still seemed to soon to say goodbye.

Silverbear was nearly 6 when we adopted him. Less than 5 years later, a tumor on his heart took him from the picture of health to gone in just a few weeks. We had such amazing times and I couldn’t imagine a better companion for life in London. His sudden illness was a shock and we couldn’t believe he didn’t even make it to 11 years old.

Our current husky Roli was nearly 3 when we adopted him. After the heartbreak of Silver’s illness, I pushed for a younger dog. The truth is that I know it might not matter. We never know how long we have and we need to make the most of each day.

What do you do to make the most of the time you have with your loved ones (furry or otherwise)?