Sometimes just one question, and the answer that you give, can change parts of your life forever.

"If anything ever happened to me, would you take care of Mac?"

"Of course!" I answered, not knowing my friend was terminally ill. I loved Mac, a handsome Lhasa Apso, whom I dogsat for from time to time.

Sadly, six months later Mac was left without a mistress, and a new chapter in his life was to begin.

Mac came to live with me. He was already 13 years old, so it was a very quiet life for us both. Soon I began to bake small treats for my beloved roommate. Other recipes were tested, and Mac's Macaroons Dog Treats was born!

As founder of the company little Mac was the CEO & Official Taste Tester. I settled in doing the baking, packaging, distribution, marketing and delivery.

The best of friends and business partners, the two of us cherished every day together. Mac taught me many lessons, as all of us with animal friends know that only they can do.

Dr. Tony Rogstad and the wonderful staff at Chimacum Valley Vet Hospital took care of Mac's needs in the three years he was with me, and I'm forever grateful for his care and attention.

Mac Johanson Stanger passed away quietly on January 16, 2007. He is now free to run and play with the fairies that occupy a tiny corner of his Port Townsend yard, glancing down every now and again to check on the progress of the dog treat company he founded.

He will be loved forever.