Two of my friends had to make the most difficult decision yesterday. Although each person had different circumstances, their decisions led to the same fate. Saying goodbye to their beloved pets.
Words cannot console or ease someone’s bereavement with the loss of their pet. For people like me and others, we look to our pets as family members. While some do not share our views or passions with our pets, I feel others should be respectful and try to understand the pain we, animal lovers, endure at a time like this.
My friends are not alone. I have endured the loss of many beloved pets and will again one day. Although each has to deal with this gigantic loss in his/her way, one fact remains the same. The pain is real and the loss is immense.
No matter how young or old, small or big pet, healthy or sick the pet was, the loss is extremely painful. Your pet was your constant companion, your best friend, the one who watched out for you and the one you watched out for. Your pet was very special and had his or her way of doing the silliest things…….whether it be crawling under your blanket, to trying to be your lap dog even though your pet was a Great Dane. Your pet was one of a kind and cherished so very much by you.
Your pet may be gone from here on earth but will live on in your heart and memories. You will never forget and those memories will one day be a source of comfort.
“Parting is such sweet sorrow”…..yes, this is so true. Right now, the pain stings very badly and the hurt runs so deeply. There is nothing I or others can say to ease that pain. You, alone, must grieve for your best friend. But know this, we may not know your pain but we do know THE pain you feel. We empathize with you. Do what is right for you in the grieving process since there is no clear cut answer for everyone.
And please know you are not alone. There are those of us who do understand and care.
Here is a poignant video about the Rainbow Bridge. To my friends and to anyone who has lost a beloved pet, I am so sorry for your loss.