Sundial, that is the most touching tribute to a lost, beloved pet on this thread i have ever read. Isn't it amazing how they don't complain, they don't argue, even as their health changes so drastically and they are in pain? They seem to simply adapt and accept their life, regardless of the circumstances.
You obviously had a great, great dog and you served him very well...to the very end. My deepest condolences.
(btw, he was beautiful!)