'I heard someone once say if you put your hand in a bucket of water and then take it out, that's the impression you will leave behind on this earth - but I don't think it has to be like that. We can all make a difference and leave our mark.
Dogs live far more "in the day" than people. Each new day is a new joy to us, a fresh beginning, full of hope and promise. Even, or especially as we get older, we need to seize every opportunity that comes our way. We have earnt the right to be respected senior citizens - or top dogs.
I had no intention of fading away quietly, once my time was up on the riverbanks, so I set about exploring new ways to find my happy ever after. I knew there was more to life than lounging in bed all day - as attractive as that sounds - and I wanted to make sure I had rinsed every drop of life the world has to offer and licked the metaphorical bowl clean!
Take it from me - it sucks when you have to let go.'
In this, Ted's final tale, he explores various roles for his impending retirement, in public service, the military and the voluntary sector, finding some more suitable than others. He also makes one final, and rather startling discovery about his precious briefcase.
Ted didn't quite get to enjoy his retirement, so honour his legacy and make sure you find your own happy ever after.
Read by Tony Way, with Lisa Clark and Dr Anand Patel
© Ted the Dog and Lisa Clark 2026 (P) Penguin Audio 2026
