I decided to do a short series of graphite artworks to pay homage to dogs, my own and my other family members', that I have known and who have been a huge part of my life at one point or another. Sadly, these dogs have gone over to the darklands over time, but this seems all the more reason to comemorate them.

This was Spike. Spike was the definitive faithful old dog, a powerfully-built Blue Heeler that was owned first by my cousins, then my uncle, then looked after by me, then living on my aunt's farm until the day he died. He was never particularly happy in town, and flourished beautifully when he got the chance to live in the country again.
Spike was the littermate of my old dog, Shelly (who is also in this series of artworks), but outlived her by many years. He was born when I was about 3, and only died two or three years ago, passing away of natural causes at the age of about 14. He had arthritis during his twilight years, but could still chase and catch rabbits and help round up sheep till the day he died.
He was the best and most well-mannered dog I've ever met; quiet, polite, laid-back and companionable, while being a fierce protector and amazing guard dog. He never hurt the farm cats or the livestock, and only started to lose his patience with the kids after his arthritis got too bad to deal with their rough-housing.
I loved him, and I will miss him very much.