Entering a stranger’s home — especially at the emotionally charged time when they are facing the end of their beloved pet’s life — is always uncertain.  Most people are gracious, thankful, tearful. Some are speechless with grief.  Others are angry and ready to blame — as was one inebriated, distressed man I encountered on a late Thanksgiving night.  Arms around his dog yelling, “No, stay away from us!” when I arrived.  Later as I left though, he hugged me tightly, reminding me how powerful kind words and a gentle touch can be.