The very last thing I thought my Dad needed at 85 and with everything else that is going on was a puppy. Then I thought--after all the heartache he's been going through, maybe a puppy would help keep him wanting to carry on. When I came back to MN in October, we got a 5 mo. old Standard Poodle (I say we because the only reason the responsible breeder considered selling her to my Dad is because I promised I would care for her and that she would always have a home--I did rescue for 12 years, I know what happens when the owner dies and the family doesn't want the dog). I picked her out of the three puppies because she has a soft temperament and makes him so happy--and, every morning, she greets me with kisses and wants to kanoodle. She makes me smile every day and seeing how much joy she brings to my Dad's life makes me smile. Even though now was probably the worst time one could imagine to get a puppy, I'm glad I set aside that thought and went with it.