Dear Wendy,
What luck your friend had to have compassionate humans around him. Animals have a way of wrapping around your heart & soul in a unique way, don't they? Having just lost my old dog 2 months ago, I know it is hard no matter how well prepared you are. But all spirit connections, such as that which you have shared with us, are truly blessings. I count ourselves fortunate to have had an animal gaurdian for so long.
peace & joy,
holobon