Sam was more than just a dog; he was a unique individual. Rescued from a difficult situation, he brought a touch of the extraordinary into our lives. Unlike many dogs who conform to their breed's expectations, Sam had a distinct personality and way of being. His facial expressions, ranging from loving and playful to judgmental and annoyed, hinted at a level of canine intelligence that recent research has confirmed. He seemed to notice things that other dogs just didn’t.

I'll cherish many memories of Sam, but his final summer was particularly poignant. At nearly fifteen, he was frail and suffering from cognitive decline. Yet, in his last three months, he underwent a remarkable transformation. He rediscovered his puppy-like joy, playing with toys, baying at the moon, and relishing outdoor adventures. It was a beautiful and bittersweet end to a remarkable life. I still miss him.