This story is dedicated to my canine friends Fella, Goldie and Robbie; my feline friends Smudgewick, Kelly, Mr Timothy, Satin and Taffy and my equine friends Baskara and Kaani. You are all gone, but you are not forgotten. The paw and hoof prints that you have left on my heart and soul are still there.

And Shakotay, who for sixteen and a half years, unselfishly shared with me her love of life, bones, a big old bark, a delicious roll in something smelly and a good long run.

(Above image author’s own)