Have you heard some one say, “She was my heart dog.” ? All dog lovers, if they are lucky, have at least one chance at a relationship like this with a pet. Heart dogs are the dogs that change our lives. Whether they are rescue dogs that enlighten us and instill a deeper sense of compassion or a dog that sees us through difficult periods in our own lives; those relationships can be transformative.
The laws of nature call for our time with these special dogs to be too short. The feeling of loss can be achingly profound. For us, our dog was a Shetland Sheepdog named Scout. As a puppy, he went to work with us and ruled the office building. 
Office mates, and other folks who worked in the building would often stop by to see if they could walk him. Just spending time with him broke the monotony of their day and in his own way, Scout was the resident therapy dog. It was Scout who instilled the love of dogs in us, and a desire to help other dogs – and their owners so that they might provide a better life their pups.
Have you had a “Heart” dog, a dog that changed your outlook on life, or a dog who’s buoyant personality could bring laughter into a room filled with sadness? We’d like to know your story. We’ve created a memorial section here on Sarasota Dog to celebrate those special pets and to share your dog’s story. Your dog’s story will appear in our memorial section an archival tribute to your dog and what he or she brought to you you and your family.