Sorry about your dog. I know the feeling, I had to put down my dog this year(16 years old) and am, believe it or not, going "down to the pound and find something that looks like it chases deer."
My beloved 10-yr old Chow-Keeshund cross - Brunna - dropped dead in my back yard just after midnight this morning. I'd just let him out, as requested, of course, and went to bring him 10 minutes later. I couldn't believe my eyes. I found him lying by the back fence and immediately called the police. However, they (and later the Vet Hospital) found no signs of injury or other exterior trauma. The (un-autopsied) conclusion is 'natural causes,' probably massive heart attack.
I have not slept and I'm running on adrenaline. Knowing that when that subsides my heart will surely be ripped from my chest.
I am an older (59) woman who lives alone and has no family on the NA continent. I am bereft. I dread Christmas. I dread my birthday tomorrow.
Would appreciate prayers.
I would love to post a pic of my Brunna but don't know how. Thanks for taking the time to read this.