Glad you have good news... many people don't realize how important pets can become in one's life... as mentioned a couple of times we have two Irish Setters... I know if my wife had to ever make a choice... I would be out the door...
BTW If you ever want to prove to yourself who is man's best friend... simply lock your dog and your wife in the trunk of your car and return in a half hour to see which one is happiest to see you...