I've lost count of the number of times that I've crept sleepless downstairs in the small hours and sat with my dog's soft head in my lap. There is a consolation from his gentle, loving presence. The kids adore him and he does the same for them, he's a loyal friend who never judges or turns away. He's fun, a good excuse for exercise, endlessly forgiving, always wanting cuddles. And he protects us, at least as far as he is concerned.
Having a dog means knowing that you will lose one of the best friends that you ever have. But loss is a part of life and insulating oneself from it means not really living. Loving anything means getting hurt. Even labradors.