I was awakened early this morning by a voice call. My pretty girl Sachiko had stopped eating a few days ago, and had spent the night at the vet's office. Brian had called me from there. She had a massive infection. Brian said she'd gotten worse in the half hour he'd been there. Her breathing was getting rough while the vet explained the situation to me. It was clear she had no more time. I am currently on the opposite side of the planet - I get home in 5 days. I had no choice but to give the ok to euthanise her from here. She is gone now. I didn't get to say goodbye. I'm not alone today. I am infinitely grateful to my friend for being with me for the day. I am grateful to everyone offering support from afar.