This Thanksgiving I’m thankful for my dog Cleo. We raised a glass to her at dinner. We spoke of her many exploits in tribute to her wonderful life as our sweet girl. Her country cousins Bruin and Teddy did their best to slobber and snuggle away any sad tears we may have shed. 

You may have read my senior dog passed away surrounded by salmon treats and love in late September, but I’m still so very thankful for her continued positive influence. I may have moments of melancholy but it isn't long before a memory of Cleo uplifts my thoughts. 

How she manages to give fearlessly even from heaven, is a mystery, or my Thanksgiving miracle. Either way, I give thanks to Cleo and all the dogs we love!

via www.grouchypuppy.com/blog

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“When we love dogs, we love them all the way. The experience is all-encompassing as you enjoy the highest highs, the lowest lows, and everything in between...” That roller coaster of emotion is true for Cleo's guardian and mom, Sharon Castellanos, as she said goodbye last month to her Grouchy Puppy muse and beloved ambassador of big dog adoptions. 

October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month. Do you need a reason to make adoption your first choice? How about three wonderful reasons? Meet this sweet family that includes three dogs, all of whom were senior sweethearts when they were adopted by Mark and Mary Ann Behme. 

Watch the video and consider making adoption your first choice when adding to your family. Learn more about the Shelter Pet Project

And while you're thinking about what family means to you, November is Adopt a Senior Dog Month. Consider sharing your home with an older dog.

Raspberry puppy kisses to San Francisco SPCA from your biggest fan! 

Oh SF/SPCA you look good for being so old...BOL

This is my happy dog face.

Older dogs may not be able to chase birds at the beach anymore. Napping may be a higher priority than digging in the garden for an old bone. Chilling out at home is more fun than long road trips.

Pleasure can be simply catching some new and savory smells from a neighbor's grill...like I am right now. Click and watch five seconds of how a senior dog rolls...

As an older dog, I love hanging out with my family more than ever!