It with deepest sorrow that Tyler and I pass on the news of Mer's untimely demise.

We started to worry when Mer didn't return to the house after being let out for the evening. Mer was known to wander up to the neighbors for some extra attention. So, Tyler and I searched the yard and road when Mer did not return. But, it was dark and we couldn't find Mer.

Mer was finally found this morning by our neighbor while he was out working with his dogs. From the look of it, Mer suffered a painless death. It appears as if a car clipped him just as he was coming out of a culvert next to the road. We believe he passed instantly.

We brought Mer home and placed him beneath some lilacs in the front yard. Even though we'll miss Mer, we're happy to know that he's resting in peace and that he finally made it home.

Mer was the first "real" pet that Tyler and I shared. Aloof from the very beginning, Tyler fell in love with the puppy that was hiding under the dining room table of the kennel owners. That pretty much sums Mer up. He was always a happy, independent dog. He loved to run and explore. And, his happiest time has been living in the country where he could do both things everyday.

Mer is survived by his half-sister, Aisha, and his nephew, Shiro.