Thanks for all your insight. All of your comments are greatly appreciated. One thing that helps is that Rocco has had a fantastic life. He had lots of freedom, went everywhere with us and was never away from us for one day. He is still our buddy! He was able to run in his fenced in yard whenever he wanted too, He ate the best food, lots of venison, and was always in good health. For us he is the perfect dog. I will watch him closely.

This morning we let our beloved Rocco go. It was his time. In two months he would have been 17. We are totally crushed!!! The vet tried to help and she was very understanding. The only comfort that I have was that I wrapped him in his favorite blanket and hugged him until he was gone. He lived a marvelous long life. We will miss him for a very long time. At the end he loved to sleep. He looked very peaceful when he was sleeping. Now he’s sleeping and in peace forever. Thanks for your support.