I think about getting a dog . . . a small dog. I feel I can't right now because I think I have enough caregiving to do with my s.o. I don't want to pile on another responsibility.

When I had my dog who passed away, she got me out walking a lot. She was good sized and needed a lot of exercise. She was very devoted to me. She gave me a lot of companionship. I took me five years to stop grieving the loss of her. I couldn't even drive past a certain park where I used to take her. Now I can and don't always think of her when I do.

A pet is a huge commitment, or should be. That's what gives me pause. But I just want to love on every dog I see. My neighbor had two dogs that stayed in the back yard while he was at work. I used to visit them through the fencing between our houses. I would throw them little dog treats that I bought for them. Just a few a day. I would talk to them and they would watch me filling my bird feeders.

Seeing them was often the highlight of my day. I swear they knew how to count. They seemed to know I would toss over three treats to each of them. They ran around all excited to get their three treats each. Then they would calm down and not beg for more - like they understood that was the quota.

Dogs are extremely grateful for whatever they get from you. I learned you can make friends with neighbors' dogs by tossing them treats. I've tamed some unfriendly dogs that way. I don't think human friendship quite rivals what a dog can offer you. They give a lot. They also need a lot. But they're so happy when you meet their needs. It's very gratifying.