Everyone has heard the expression “a dog is a man’s best friend,” but unless you have a dog, it is difficult to realize just how much that famous saying rings true. There are various definitions of family, but for a dog lover and owner of a pet, these furry, four-legged canines are more than just friends – they are part of the family.

Back in 2009, my younger sister, Alana, went online to a website called northernlights.com and found a beautiful, light-golden retriever for sale.