Oh, Karen! I hope this makes sense because I'm crying so hard I can hardly see. You did the kindest most loving thing for Cody. I had a cat named Lucy who I loved beyond belief. I had to have her put down the same year my dad died. She was almost 17 and I knew it was coming. I had watched her gradually grow weak and feable, her legs shaking as she tried to stand. I carried her to her litter box and brought her food and water to her. One day she got so she wouldn't even drink water. She looked at me and I'll never forget the expresion in her eyes. "If you really love me, you'll let me go and not let me suffer any more." I heard that just as clear as if she had spoken. I let her go to the RB that morning. It was so hard. I was lucky in that I had 3 others to cry with and the next summer Chester came to live with us. It was time for Cody to go but you had a few good days before he went. I think they were his gift to you. Your dad will take care of him until you get there. Maybe Cody will send a new puppy to you to love when you are ready. It won't take Cody's place but will make its own place in your heart. And Cody and your Dad will look down from the Rainbow bridge and smile.