This afternoon our incredible vet, Dr. Sue Hultman and vet technician Susie came once again to our house to put a loved one to sleep. We cannot thank them enough for the love and care they provided Andy.

Many of you know Andy's story. We adopted a beautiful red female golden retriever at 8 weeks old, when we went to look at a friend's puppies. From the moment she looked at us, we knew, she was the one for us. For over 14 years, she has been an amazing companion. When we moved to Texas she made the transition easy, and adapted wonderfully to her new life.

We became an animal therapy team; she went to schools, hospitals and nursing homes to bring a smile and unconditional love to all she met. Whether Andy was sitting quietly by a patient's bed or on her therapy visits at a school for autistic children, she provided encouragement to all the children and adults in her life.

Andy not only opened her heart to adults and children, but also to abandoned animals. As a foster home for Golden Retriever Rescue of North Texas, we have had over 20 golden retrievers into our home over her lifetime, and Andy has welcomed everyone into her home with open paws. She served as a patient foster mother for the rescued Goldens. Her interaction with the Goldens we fostered helped them on their way to become loving and obedient companions for their permanent families.

Andy was part of a large family, grandparents, children, grandchildren, friends and neighbors, she was always there to provide companionship. For everyone, no matter the age, she was always a patient playmate, whether it was for a walk, a run, dressing her up like a doll, or just to lay with to ease them into slumber.

Andy was truly an exceptional animal, attracting people and dogs wherever she went and capturing the hearts of everyone around her.