If our dogs and cats, not to mention countless farm animals, could write, I am sure that they would send along their heartfelt thanks and praise for Dr. Gunther Lill, DVM, their physician of many years.

Having received the dreaded notice of his Cranberry Township office closing, I could not help but think of the countless times he personally came to our aid in dealing with our family pets, or to assist us as we worked with a feral cat community over the years.

Several people I spoke with in the waiting room recently expressed the same sense of gratitude and loyalty.

Not only have Dr. Lill and his staff been compassionate, but he would work tirelessly to help aid an ailing animal in his care. He was able to save Precious, my Calico cat, after she was poisoned by contaminated cat food.

After Precious became seriously ill very quickly, Dr. Lill took our weekend call at his home, rushed to his office and revived her.

It took a few days, but she returned to us, having survived.

For that, we were so thankful.

Therefore, with our hearts (and tails), we pay tribute to Dr. Lill as he ventures on a new journey. We will never forget him.