“One last visit,” one of the doctors agreed reluctantly. “Ten minutes.”

When Greta was brought in, she seemed disoriented at first, confused by the unfamiliar hospital smells and sterile environment. But as soon as she saw her owner, her confusion melted away. She rushed over to the woman, tail wagging.

“Hello, my girl,” the woman whispered, stroking her dog’s soft fur. Tears fell as she spoke. “I’m sorry… I’m sorry I have to leave you. I’m scared, but you don’t need to be. You’re so smart, I love you.”