Chris, I wanted to pick this thread back up again when you got home so you would feel right at home again, and I loved the story, it is very much worth repeating. It shows just how big these little Sheltie hearts are.
Last Christmas we had our picture taken with CeCe at the Animal rescue league. With all the other pets there I was afraid we would have a time with CeCe as she is such a friendly dog and loves to say Hello to everyone. When we arrived, she went directly over to one women and let her pet and hold her. I was filling out the paperwork but I kept thinking CeCe must be wearing out her welcome with the woman. My boyfriend was keeping an eye on CeCe but said the woman was just as happy as could be to play with CeCe and actully wouldn't let her go.
Later, she revealed to us that her dog of many years had just passed away, and was unsure she could even volunteer for the event that night, knowing that all those dogs would remind her of her pet. But, she said, CeCe had brought a calmness to her, CeCe made it OK and allowed her to move on and think about getting another dog. It's like CeCe knew instinctively that she needed her attention and her love. CeCe did a very good thing that night!
We truly do not know the kind of communication dogs are capable of or the capacity of their hearts.
Bits, Big Sheltie hugs and kisses from Kia and Myself. 
