Anyone who’s ever had a pet of any kind knows that unique pain — the realization that you will most likely outlive your beloved cat or dog, for example.

That’s compounded by the understandably reluctant acceptance that the pain from age or sickness has become too much to bear for both the animal and even you.

Such was the recent case of Thor, a German Shepherd/Belgian Malinois mix who served for about 10 to 12 years in the K-9 unit of the Southampton Sheriff’s Office. His human partner, Cpl. Hank Fuller, saw the signs and had arranged for the procedure that would end Thor’s suffering.

Ceremoniously, other K-9s were at attention while their furry comrade was taken inside the Wright Funeral Home, where a compassionate animal control officer would perform the task that would give everlasting rest.

We salute not only Fuller and Thor, but all K-9 and their partners for their service in not only tracking after criminal types, but also seeking out individuals lost or hurting. The expert training and care has been invaluable to the region.

Not surprisingly, Fuller expects to one day see Thor after this life. There is no doubt in our minds that will be true for him, as well as for all who have had the privilege to care their own beloved animals.