Oh gosh, I am so sorry that your dad did that to you. My dog getting lost has always been my worst fear. Unlike death, there is no closure. I adopted my first dog when I was 24 and he died as I turned 37. He was my soul dog, my first love, and rock. I have since adopted 2 other dogs, and while I love them, its not the same love. On another note, I just started a pub called "Pet Therapy Notes" for these exact stories and I would love for you to submit this, or consider being added as a writer for any pet related future work. Your writing is absolutely beautiful.