STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — For most children, pets are more than just household animals; they are family members and close companions.

Sadly, the happiness that comes with having a pet is matched by the sadness that comes with losing one due to old age, disease, or an accident.

And that can be really hard. After all, children are frequently greeted by their family pets first thing in the morning and after school. When your child is sick, depressed, or upset, they could turn to their pet for solace and company.

We recently spoke with Sophia Di Meglio, author and illustrator of “ A Big Life for Buddy .”

In her book, she takes readers on the journey of her larger-than-life dog, Buddy, whom she felt was a “little human” and her best friend.

Buddy lived a full and joyful 15 years with Di Megl

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