Only one of my many setters, mostly Irish, but, a smattering of English and Gordons, as well, made it past 10 years. They are not a long lived dog, usually. One Gordon made 15 years, but, lets just say the final 12 months weren't a pretty sight.
I loved them all to pieces, even the dogs that turned out to be non-hunters. They are all wecome here, and I'd never dispose of one that didn't hunt. Along the way I've picked up a pragmatic (mean?) streak that dictates the younger dogs get more precious dollars thrown at their vet than the dogs past 6 or so years. I've lugged enough 10-13 year old pooches out of a woods over my life to know that long lived dogs aren't always the most productive guys in the big picture.
You both will be heartbroken, and, I have been where you are, many times. I'm sorry for your loss. Time, for a human, marches on, and another dog should be invited into the family.
Best,
Ted
