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Have you noticed that lately something is missing from life? You're not exactly sure what it is, but the home is lacking something that has brought you enjoyment in the past. You try to pinpoint just what it is. You have a religion or your own brand of spirituality. You have grown children and young grandchildren and a marriage of many years. You've accomplished a more-than-adequate education. You have purpose in life. You're comfortable enough in your "golden years," and you feel no need to be well off. So what's lacking?

Finally, while watching a movie, the answer comes. There is no dog in the house. No man's - or woman's - best friend. That's exactly what you need to make life feel more complete. You look through the local paper, but prices of pets from private owners are out of this world, and the ones you call about are already gone, anyway. You wouldn't mind paying a substantial amount for your pet if you found one in the ads that was healthy and up to date all vaccines and at least the basics, but suddenly you realize there are many more things to consider when buying a pet.

The idea nudges you: What about adopting a dog? You better think this through.

For example, what breed suits you best? You recall the older black cocker spaniel you had as a first pet after you were married. He was absolutely the best friend anyone could have. When he died, you tried to replace him with another who looked just the same, but you soon found out you couldn't replace one pet with another. Other pets have come and gone over the many years since then, and none measured up to the first black cocker.

It's decided - it will be a cocker spaniel, and black is preferable but any color is fine. Or perhaps one of the other assorted varieties of spaniels; they are all beautiful. Spaniels are obviously a group that suits you. Their devotion and temperament can be wonderful, and those huge dark eyes are irresistible. They need a lot of grooming, and that gives you opportunities to bond with the dog.

The search is on! Will it be a puppy, a young dog, a mature dog, or a senior? You're aging and you may not have the energy for a puppy regardless of how cute puppies are. Young dogs still chew and have a lot of energy. Mature dog...maybe. But for you, a senior dog might be the best of all worlds. It's slowing down...you're slowing down...

Where will you get this dog? Wait for one to show up in the newspaper? Check out a pet store? A breeder? A shelter? You think about all the dogs who

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