and so silky soft. He soon got used to his new home and took over our couch, our bed, and our hearts. We had taken him on many trips, made new friends because of him, and built our life around this wonderful sensitive living being. If ever anything confirmed my belief in a higher being, it was the sweetness of Jake.

Despite the vet's advice about putting him down, we decided to take Jake home and bring him back the next day for the sad deed. That night we took pictures of him lying on the floor. I fed him fresh chicken by hand. He fell into a deep sleep and we hoped that if he had to die, it would be on his comfortable couch.

The next day Jake seemed a bit stronger and we were able to take him for the shortest possible walk. He easily relieved himself. We called the animal hospital and said we would not be bringing him in that day. Instead we went to the dog park. Several people noticed how weak he was and were so sad that he did not have long to live.

The next day Jake seemed even stronger still and we went for longer walks. He is only eating people food, including pieces of steak, lamb, chicken, and thin sliced roast beef. He's having a good time with the little dog down the hall.

As I write this, I watch him doze. Every time I think it is the end for him, he wakes up, gets on his feet, and seems ready for another round of life. We hope that we can have him for a little while longer.

For more information about spleen tumors in dogs, go to: www.vetsurgerycentral.com/sple en_tumors.htm.

Learn more about this author, Arlene Hauben.
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