He was a big mix-up mutt. I think he had some poodle in him (they live a long time) but maybe portugese water dog? He was about that size. Good old Grover, I swear. I can look at photos of my dad, my grandparents, my brother, my husband - they've all died and I see photos and never shed a tear. Show me a picture of old Grover and I get all misty and verklempt. He was a good dog.

I hope old Wiley doesn't have to suffer a horrible injury at the end. :( That's so very sad, my friend. I understand why you don't want it to go down that way.

Have you thought of having a vet come out to the house and put him to sleep there at home? That can be a bittersweet kindness to help an old companion on to the next level in their comfortable happy surroundings. Just a thought.