Thankfully he did, because he is one terrific companion and we are thankful to have him.

But what of this puppy lying beside me? All I can offer him tonight is a caring, gentle touch, a warm fluffy towel to sleep wrapped in, and all the love I can cram into one long, sleepless night for me whilst I watch over him.

For in the morning, I know he will not be with us. All I can do for him is simply not enough to save his life.

We have 9-1-1 for human emergencies. Why do we not have the same for our animal companions?

What a waste. He would have made someone a wonderful companion.

*Update: A mere hour and a half upon completion of this article, this puppy died. Still not convinced? See the link below for pictures of the consequences of animal cruelty.