I'm so sorry to hear of this dog's passing. Maremma Sheepdogs are beautiful creatures. A veterinarian I work with was born and raised in Italy, and he brought his Maremma over with him when he moved to the states (it was the first time I'd ever seen or heard of the breed). He would sometimes bring her in to work, because she was older and if he knew he'd be working over time, he wanted the ability to give her potty breaks. She was the sweetest dog. Huge, but so gentle. I knelt next to her one day to say hello and she put her paw on me to ask for pettings, but because of her size and strength, she nearly punched me right over! And even as I feel over, all she cared about was getting her head into my lap, ha ha.

But I am truly sorry to hear of Codey's passing. Dogs just have a funny way of wedging themselves into your heart.

They are beautiful but not for everyone. I wish people would research dog breeds before buying the cute puppies. Thank you for your kind comment and telling me about the one you knew :)

You have my condolences. I understand you very much. Last year I didn't celebrate Christmas because three days before, my baby UI had for 6 months passed one. she was a lab/shepherd mix and she was so special in her own little way. She just went out in the backyard and passed away while my brother and I watched helplessly, waiting for our mother to rush home. Before that my mom lost her cat that I, too loved and my rat. So we lost a lot. He is watching over you though. : ) If you ever feel a "presence" I'm sure it's him and he thanks you for saving him.

I'm sorry to hear of your heartbreak and thank you for your kind comments. They just don't live long enough. I didn't rescue Codey though, he was rescued and rehabilitated by the owner of the property where I keep my horse. She's a great lady who rescues horses and dogs and gives them a new lease on life.

They really don't and sorry for the confusion. He was still a friend though! I truly wished they lived longer. Sometimes I don't because they find a far better place then here, but when they have family that they'll leave behind... its not fun. I may look into a speedpaint . I'd love to get one of my babies sometime if you'll accept.

I hadn't actually considered offering speedpaint versions of the pet portraits. I may consider it, it really depends if I can stop myself obsessively over-detailing when I know it's for a client and spending 10 hours on something I should have spent 2 hours on lol.

the picture is great - and I'm sorry for the loss *hugs*

Thanks very much

Sorry to see a beloved creature has moved on from this world... *offers hug*
(but a fitting and beautiful tribute)

Thanks *hugs*