[Jeff Higgins]

My work takes me away from home for anywhere from a few weeks to maybe a few months at a time. I get this same treatment from my Golden Retriever, Katie, every time I come home.

She normally sleeps at the foot of our bed when I'm home. My wife tells me she sleeps on the landing, at the front door, when I'm away. She can't decide if Katie is just getting more protective, or if she is actually waiting for me.

Anyone who has never experienced this kind of a relationship between man and animal is really, really missing out. It really kind of grounds you in a way nothing else will. It's just so honest and giving. I don't think even the best of mankind is capable of giving at this level...