While it is true that some dogs come to that end because of the death/illness of their owners, which was Leah's case, or for other unavoidable circumstances, they are a very small percentage. The vast majority are "lost", because they were allowed to roam free, or they were dumped, because they were no longer "convenient".

We have become a consumer society that somehow has lost its sense of obligation to care for those who cannot care for themselves. And that includes animals. The advent of disposable this and that, has extended to the family pet. If it's too big, too rowdy, pees on the floor, gets pregnant because they weren't altered, or gets old, then we dump it and get another. Puppies, young dogs and seniors end up in shelters together, but the youngest have the best chance of getting out alive. In a good many cases, owner surrenders are the first dogs euthanized.

In 1998, the University of Colorado released a study report that included data and statistics from four regions covering Colorado, Kentucky, Tennessee, California, New Jersey and New York. Out of the approximately 4 million pets taken in by shelters in those regions during each of the years studied, 30% were owner surrenders. Out of those surrenders, 15%, or some 180,000 were given up due to age or illness. Other reasons cited included too many pets, cost of keeping a pet and moving.

Most families adopt a dog for companionship. It is a poor return for the best years of a dog's life, to abandon it when it becomes elderly or arthritic. Where there is life, there is love. A dog will ask very little of you except the necessities to live, and the return is more than money could ever buy.

There is nothing at all wrong with buying a purebred puppy from a reputable breeder. Or in getting a puppy from a friend and having it altered. But if you have room in your home and your heart, consider adopting an older, rescue dog from one of the many purebred rescue groups and shelters. Senior dogs, mixed breeds included, are past the issues of puppyhood, and make ideal companions for singles, retired people, and those families with children old enough to understand that rescue dogs often come with "baggage". That may be housebreaking problems, shyness, depression, or physical infirmities.

These can be overcome with gentleness, patience and appropriate veterinary care, leaving you with a loving companion. No, they won't be around as long as a puppy. But the time they give you will be just as sweet.

This is the face of love. Remember it the next time you are looking for a pet.