We lost a big member of our family this week. Now let me just make this clear...if you have never had a dog or ever not liked dogs then click off now because you will not understand anything that I am going to say next.

​I Knew that having a guide dog was going to be hard work, and a lot of responsibilities. But I never realized that you could fall in love with a dog so much until I had my first guide dog Uno. A black Labrador who was very vocal about everything. She hardly barked, but the sounds that she would make almost sounded like actual words. She was not just my guide dog, but she became my baby, my little toddler. When retirement came for Uno. It was so hard, and in my circumstances, I was not able to keep her. At thirteen years old Uno was back at the school and soon was adopted by a new family. I was so attached to her, and I felt like nobody understood that she was my baby. I took care of her since I first received her. I also took care of her health for all eleven years that she was with me. It was also hard retiring her because she still wanted to guide me. She still wanted to help me around obstacles, finding the steps and the curbs for mommy. But she had gotten too slow. Like it or not, it was just that time for her retirement. I’ve missed her so much, and even till this day, I still miss her.

Let’s talk about man’s best friend. So many people enjoy the company dogs. Many are even obsessed with our four legged counterparts. Here are some reasons why:

It all started when I was very little. My love of dogs has been with me as long as I can remember as I’ve grown up with dogs almost my whole life. When I was little I had two terrier mixes Millie and Stella. They were my first love and ever since then. Dogs were my favorite thing. When I was in elementary school dogs were my whole life and took over almost every aspect of my young life. It became so intense that a lot of my teachers, aides, and other helpers wanted me to tone down my love for dogs. Which I took to mean that I should stop loving dogs completely because I couldn’t understand why everyone told me to talk about things other than dogs.

Dogs, we love them so much that sometimes we even think they are human. We give our dogs human names, watch them develop certain personality traits, and buy them gifts for birthdays and holidays. Everything about the way most people treat their dogs is as if they are our children, so can you only imagine if your four legged friend got to build a house of its own?

The new year's just passed. And it won't be too long before another event in your city will start shooting off fireworks to celebrate. So many dogs are terrified of fireworks. It's not just the small breeds. True, some dogs don't care. But some, like my lovely Labrador puppy, whimper, run, and hide from the sound of firecrackers.

Man’s best friend has always been there for us, and we need to always be there for them too. Our dogs rely on us solely for all their nutrition, exercise, social and bonding needs. And while they may only be around for a short part of our lives, to them, we are 100% of their lives. When taking care of our pups while traveling together around the world, managing their comfort by keeping the temperature down during hotter weather should be high on your priority list.

Dental care for dogs is important, but it's an aspect of care that is frequently overlooked by dog owners. Making sure you are aware of what your pet's mouth typically looks like and talking to your vet if you spot any issues can go a long way toward protecting your furry friend. Also consider this advice to help keep your dog's teeth healthy and his or her breath fresh.

I thought my friends were jealous when I got a puppy for my fifteenth birthday. It was a purebred Bernese Mountain breed. My mom thought it was too expensive, but my dad never looked at the price. We drove over to the breeder and he let me pick out one by myself. Five little puppies cuddled on the floor of the dark closet. I bent down and picked one with the largest white spot on the head. I already knew how I would name him. Bruno. It fit with the breed name and also was just original. I did not know about Bruno Mars back then.

Most dog lovers know they should never give chocolate to a dog as it is toxic, however there are other foods that can also put your dogs health at risk. During the holiday season it is easy to forget that dogs are not able to consume the same food that we can, especially as they are such an important part of the family. Children may also be tempted to share their chocolate and bits of cake or other treats that they have and even guests can be tempted to sneak a friendly dog a treat.

Tilly. My dog. My baby. My world. My only saviour some times.