Twelve years ago, an incredible dog named "Amadeus" came into my rescue. Jodi heard about the dog and facilitated his transfer to MLAR from a shelter in Berks County. Amadeus was frightened and wary of men but there was something really extraordinary about him. I wanted him to like me so I took him into a fenced field, covered with snow, and let him off lead. After about 15 minutes of watching me from a far corner, Amadeus made a beeline to where I was sitting and unexpectedly jumped into my lap. I remember it like it was yesterday. I remember the warmth of his body and the beating of his heart. For years I joked that after I died I wanted this photo to be on my coffin at my funeral. You can't see my weak jawline or my belly, but what you can see is how lucky I have been in my life to know the animals I've known, and the wonderful people I've met - like Liz and her ex-husband who adopted this amazing dog and gave him twelve years of unconditional love and his best life. Please don't ever think for one moment I don't remember every single dog, cat, horse and rabbit, I've placed in my twenty years of rescue. They have given me so much more than I could ever give them. Today, Liz has made the difficult decision to let Amadeus go. His body is giving out and it's time to say good-bye. Let's send Liz and her husband all our good thoughts today. And Amadeus, I still feel your beating heart. Always will. I'd like everyone reading this to hug your pets today, feel their hearts beat, and know it's for you.