Yesterday was a day of sadness and tears for Kate Rock, Caroline Rock, Clare Rock and me. We lost our beloved labrador retriever Dottie. She died unexpectedly, likely from an undetected cancer. It hurts that we were all away traveling and couldn't be with her at the end, but we are forever grateful to our wonderful neighbors Janette O'Sullivan and Doug Sepkowitz who comforted Dottie in her final hours. Dottie had a lovely spirit. She was amiable, gentle, affectionate and joyful. She joined our family as a puppy and gave us 11 years of companionship, laughter and happiness. To me, she was the best dog ever and I'll sorely miss her.

Our beloved Dottie, our faithful friend,
 and your love you shared till the very end.
 For eleven years our family was blessed,
 now it's time for you to rest.
 You still live on in the hearts and minds,
 of the loving family you left behind.