This is a beautiful article. I agree with you wholehearted that we need to stop gatekeeping love. My life experience is different from yours, but my dogs are so completely part of my family that I get really upset when I get the "just a dog" comment.

I live in a crappy apartment, and I had a chance to upgrade. Peoples' minds were blown when they found out that I declined because I couldn't have my dogs.

Once when my doxie bailed out of the car im a parking lot and was missing the whole next day, my kids and I were all beside ourselves with worry and grief. We got her back, thank goodness.

I am so sorry to hear about your dog...they reallynare family, and your grief should be met with copassion!