My name is Tovi. Until recently I was an 8-year-old, healthy, happy and, if I say so myself, wonderful golden retriever.

About three weeks ago during the night, my stomach twisted, taking my spleen and causing bloat. My people knew something was very wrong with me. I was retching and miserable.

They frantically called every veterinary clinic in Tawas, Oscoda, Lincoln and Alpena. Not one clinic was available to help. They ended up taking me to Traverse City in the middle of the night. I was in pain and it was a horrible trip for me and them. The veterinarians there tried everything they could to save my life, but it was too late by then.

The really sad part is I probably didn’t have to die. I don’t understand how people who care enough about animals to become veterinarians cannot find a way to offer emergency services to us in our most dire need.

I’m in Heaven now, but I know my people really miss me. I was their best friend, companion, exercise buddy and therapist. I will be really hard to replace.

I hope something can be done so other best friends don’t have to suffer as I did. I know we have amazing veterinary doctors in Northeast Michigan. Could they consider combining their efforts to have someone on call during off hours?

My BFF Jan Klein of Harrisville wrote this for me.

JAN KLEIN,

Harrisville