My dog has been with me through the worst of times. He is my ride or die.

Same here, OP. I love my dog so much.

I'm an extremely stoic person generally, but a clip on Instagram about a dog's last will and testament or of someone having to euthanize their pet will make me teary in public even and my dogs aren't even old. It's a strange reaction. With my kids I am optimistic they will outlive me (of course not guaranteed...) but there is something about having so much love you (usually) KNOW will end traumatically that just makes me very emotional. And I have been there before. It's really hard and there's not a lot of support.

I'm sure the feelings are mutual. Dogs are so devoted to the ones who cherish them and that relationship is very rewarding. Just remember that you are most likely going to outlive your dog and that is also part of the human-dog relationship. It doesn't mean that this will happen soon, but the circle of life is inevitable. We are on our fourth dog now, although this is the first we've gotten as a puppy. (He's 2 years old now.) Losing one is so sad and they can never be replaced, but always keep your heart open for a new friend to love.

So sweet, OP!

My dog makes my heart brim over with love. ❤️