Same here, even our grandchildren are grown. We call our dogs our pup children, and why not? They are good company and let us know when anyone is around. Early warning dogs, we call them!
They are great company and can make me laugh when all I want to do is cry.
They keep me busy, too. Play, play, play, love, love, love! They ARE a great early warning systems, I feel much safer with them around.
Mine snore and fart, what more could you ask for?! :p
My oldest dog passed away a two weeks ago, it has been a bit easier on me having the two younger dogs.
We raised the youngest Boxer from a small puppy and she will go out and lay next to the plot where we buried the old girl. It chokes me up. It is a beautiful spot under the pecan tree, and I’ve put out some stones, hardy flowers and a couple of small solar lights.