Koko, the inspiration for Koko in the Other Coast strip turned 14 on April 27th. He’s slowed down considerably, snoozes on one of his many dog beds around the house most of the day and has to be helped in and out of the car, but he still eats like a horse. With any luck, he’ll be celebrating a birthday next year!

When you gotta go, you gotta go

When they were just pups, Koko and Buster were rescued by us. Buster was re-adopted by my aunt, wildlife artist Patricia Wright and when she was no longer able to care for him, Buster trotted over to the family of the publisher of the newspaper I work for. He had a wonderful life and lived it to the full, up until the last week of his life. At the age of 14, and just shy of his 15th birthday, Buster suffered terrible seizures and was in great pain. There was no alternative but to put him to sleep. It was a sad day for everyone, but I’ve always felt that it’s not the length of a dog’s life that is important. It’s the quality of their lives – and Buster certainly had a quality life.

Rest in peace, old boy.

What becomes of Hollywood dogs after they’re too old, fart too much, pee on the carpet and crap in the corner of the living room?