My great uncle is in town visiting right now. He is about to turn 80 years old. He recently had a heart attack, only has use of 25% of his lung (due to another medical problem), is diabetic, and has overcome cancer. He looks and acts GREAT though. I did get sad last night because he seemed to start staring into space. I think he was just tired though.

I think dogs may be similar. We get sad to see them staring off, but maybe their mind and/or body is just tired and thats all.

Just thought I'd add that. I know when I was going through my problems with Peka, everyone else's experiences really did help me too. I bet Amy will have some advice for you. She lost her Smokey when he was 18 and having some problems as well.

Still sending you hugs, prayers, and gentle pats to Disney.