Caroline Golon, the human behind popular humor blog Romeo the Cat, shares stories of pet owners who have gone the extra mile for their pets in this series, The Things We Do for Love.

When Ronni and Bruce Keller’s 15-year-old dog, Jaden, passed away, they were devastated. So was their other dog, Harris. After weeks of seeing Harris become more and more depressed, Ronni decided to get another dog to keep him company, much to her husband’s chagrin.

Ronni says of Bruce, “He was either going to kill me or divorce me.”

The Kellers, who live in Las Vegas, hadn’t expected Harris to be so blue when Jaden died. “We tried everything. New toys, extra fun exercise, begging … pleading,” Ronni says. But nothing seemed to make a difference in Harris’ mood.

A New Playmate Comes to the Rescue

After two months of watching Harris mope around the house, Ronni finally broke down and went looking for a new dog, unbeknownst to Bruce. She found a Lhasa Apso who was in desperate need of a family and brought him home … while her husband was at work.

But … Another Dog Means More Work

While Harris was thrilled with his new companion, when Bruce arrived home, he wasn’t so happy.  “Another dog means more vet bills. Another dog means more dog food. And poop. Two dogs pooping in the yard he has to clean up!” Ronni says.

To add to the challenges, the new dog, Bugsy, had been neglected, so he looked more like a shaggy, dirty mop than what most people envision when they think of a Lhasa Apso.

Ronni is happy to report that, although Bugsy was clearly neglected, at some point “someone did take care of him and teach him some basic manners and commands … he does sit still for the grooming we are doing,” she says. “Some time and attention does wonders.”

A Happy Ending for All

Seeing Harris happy with his new playmate made the effort — and arguments — worth it for Ronni. Plus, she knew Bruce would eventually come around, and he did.

“The hubster is fine with the new guy now. The sweet face and moppy look won him over,” Ronni says. “Plus, he’s a really good boy.”

What do you do for love? We’re looking for the funny, sweet and special stories that will make other pet parents smile. Email us at [email protected] to share your story. Please put "The Things We Do for Love" in the subject line.