Why the dog is still worth it

This is Cowboy Jack. He's a blue merle Sheltie who adopted us about four and a half years ago. We're the happier for it, despite the onslaught of furballs that effortlessly scuttle across the floor like soft tumbleweeds. 

Originally, Jack joined the family on the occasion of Greg's daughter's birthday in 2001. The runt of the litter, he was one of two puppies who managed to not drown in tropical storm Allison. The rest were swept away.

Cowboy Jack maintains that 'survivor' demeanor, a sweet temperament and a Facebook account, but our furry friend has become decidedly high maintenance. 

He has arthritis. 

He has a heart murmur. 

He wheezes like a steamboat.
 
He has nearly permanent skin allergies. 

And he suffers from kidney disease. So, Jack gets an IV every few days, prescription renal modified food, phosphorous blocker and acid controller. I roast chicken for him constantly. 

Despite all of this upkeep, that smelly old thing is still worth it. Even on the really bad days. Because, to a dog, there is no such thing as a bad hair day. And they just want to love and be loved. 

Do you have a beloved pet? To what extreme would you go for your non-human friend?

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