It's been a very difficult week here at Sludgie. After two days of treatment trying to save him, our dog Hoover died from his wounds. I wanted to thank those of you who sent emails - they really meant a lot. Hoover entered my life in September of 2000, while I was out walking. He ran up to me, and then ran out into the street and got run over by a car. His pelvis fracture healed, and his joyous, trusting nature was left unscathed. Even though I was completely devoted to his care, he was an easy pet - his only quirks were separation anxiety and a habit of licking the carpet obsessively (hence the name.) Over the years, I developed a bond with him that is difficult to describe, except to say that Hoover's gentle, loyal, sweet nature was an effective daily reminder to me that in spite of it all, life is good. It's hard for me to come back to Sludgie's realm of environmental despair without him. I miss you, Hoover.