the only problem is...my dad shuts down when emotions are involved, he drowns his sorrows using alcohol and he always wants to be on his own, i suppose its just his way of grieving. i live with my dad so the other 2 dogs are his anyway but they are only 6 and 7 years old, he loves them too but not half as much as he did charlie.

it surprises me actually, for a bloke, i am open, strong and caring, i know what to do in times of crisis, suppose its cos ive been there before with alot worse. i usually take on the role of the rock, whereas my dad, brother and sister cant, they refused to go with my dad to the vets earlier which i completely understand, but it meant i had to go and be there for my dad if anything.

in reply to what you said about it making us review our own lives, it does yea, althoguh i havent looked at my life, it brought back alot of memories of my mum passing, even though this isnt fractional as hard, it still brought back similar memories and emotions.

i will be there for my dad, i have to remain the rock for him and others. i will encourage him to open up and confide in me, he thanked me just a minute ago for being with him today and making all the arrangements, but i told him he doesnt have to thank me, and that its just wat i do.