For most of my life I have been fortunate to have had animal companions in my family. Chips, a Beagle, was the first becoming an important part of our family when I was three years old. I spent much of my childhood in the company of this wonderful dog.

Brandy, a Wirehaired Fox Terrier who was in need of a home, became a cherished member of our family when I was 15 years old. I was fortunate to live with this spirited friend for more than a decade.

Amorak, an intelligent and loyal Siberian Husky, was the first dog who I was responsible for. Amorak accompanied me to university, was by my side during some difficult times and shared with me some of the happiest times in my life - including my marriage to my wife Lynn and the birth of Gleannan, our first child. I don’t think that I looked after and raised Amorak as much as we looked after and raised each other. Even though she died nearly four years ago, I still miss her terribly.

While these three dogs were special companions, I have been blessed with wonderful relationships with all of the animals who I have had the honour of sharing my life with. The shorter lifespans of companion animals means that we will outlive many of our four-legged family members, but, on the bright side, it also means that we are able, if we choose, to share our lives with many animal companions. McDuff, Nanaimo, Teddy, Tasha, Winston, Gandalf and Rufus are our other four-legged family members whose deaths we’ve had to endure. These animals had such a positive influence on all of our lives. I know that I am a better person for having known them.

Currently, Lynn, Gleannan, Liam (our son) and I live with several canine, feline and equine family members. They not only provide us with love and companionship, but they teach us many important things about life - and ourselves.

Animal companions enrich our lives in so many ways. Unfortunately our impact on them has not been nearly as positive. Every year millions of friendly, healthy and adoptable dogs and cats are killed in animal shelters and pounds across North America. Many other stray and homeless animals lead short, harsh lives before succumbing to starvation, the elements or something else which mercifully ends the animals’ tragic lives. Horses, donkeys and other companion animals also lead harsh existences as a result of our species. When it comes to our relationship with our animal companions we have much to make up for.

Best of Friends will address many important issues affecting companion animals and their human guardians. With education and compassion we can make the world a much better place for these animals and, subsequently, ourselves. We owe them no less. After all, they’re the best of friends!