Re: My Condolences Neil:
I'm sorry to hear about your "Pal" and your loss. My Heart goes out to you, in your time of Saddness. Your Oliver was a very good looking Dog. Please know that I'm here for you, if you need to write to me, for some extra comfort.
My Brother and Family just had to put down their 18-year old Cat/Daphnae after taking her to the Vet's recently, only to find out that she had developed Diabetes and was going to need 2-shots per Day. They had agreed that because of her Age, she didn't need to be put through that and didn't need to suffer any more. My Brother and Family had gotten her when she was only a little Kitten.
Just to let you know, there are Groups out there, that have Bereavement for people who have lost their Pets and some people even attend the Groups for losses of people, but for the loss of their Pets and they aren't at all thought of wrongfully, or asked to find a different Group, at least not here in Sacramento, CA.
Peace, Condolences, Blessings, Prayers and Hugs, Steve