I write this piece as a very sad “former” pet owner. After being blessed to have Rocky in our lives for almost 17 years, yesterday we had to say goodbye to Rocky.

About six weeks ago we noticed Rocky was having trouble being able to do his normal routine as he was walking in the morning and early evening. We were traveling in an RV and visited our daughter’s vet who gave some antibiotics and told us to see our Sun City vet when we returned home, which we immediately did.

Dr. Pollyann Johnson of the Sun City Animal Hospital was most kind and assuring as she examined Rocky. She shared her thoughts and the possibilities. What impressed us was how much time she was willing to spend with us and answer all our questions.

Why did I write this piece? As a United Methodist Pastor of 39 years, I have been around a whole lot of doctors as I sat in surgery waiting rooms with church member families. Hardly ever have I seen a doctor take so much time with a family as Dr. Johnson. As time and testing showed, the worst-case scenario occurred, Rocky probably had cancer in his intestines and surrounding area. I would like folks to know that if they ever would like to have a caring competent person there for them when their pet was found to be in a serious/life threatening situation, they could find someone who understands and can help them go through what we just did.

My wife Joyce and I would like to thank Dr. Pollyann Johnson and her entire staff for the excellent care Rocky has received over the years and especially during this saddest time in our lives.