My web page can be found at In Memory of Pets under my name, Sheri Williams!
I suggest you make a web page for your Munchkin, it's therapeutic!! :)

< replied-to message removed by QT >

I completely understand your grief!!! You should try not to feel guilty about bringing in strays. My vet says that she believes that multiple pet families are healthier!!! At least she was never bored! Actually, putting them down is extremely hard too! I found my Persian, Precious at 18 had an enlarged heart! I think she had that for a long time and I hadn't taken her to the vet, so I feel major guilt over that. All I know is that I loved her very much and I did the best I could for her. I could do better now if I had another chance...you know hind sight is 20/20! Anyway, I still have a kitty, Sparkles, who is 14 now and
diabetic. He attacked Precious when she was having a seizure and I think maybe he was trying to get her out of her agony!!! Anyway, when I came home after putting her down...I laid in bed and cried for hours that night, and Sparkles joined me in bed consoling me the entire time. It was as if he was saying that it was okay, he loved me, and I did the right thing. I know it's hard but keep your chin up for your other kitties and know that your Munchkin is waiting for you at the Rainbow Bridge!!! I would love for you to see my page on this sight of me and Precious! God bless!!

< replied-to message removed by QT >

As I am writing this with tears streaming I remember my baby Munchkin. She was the sweetest cat and never ever fought. She loved to lay under the covers at night and snuggle and would bat me in the face to give her attention. Today I came home and found her in my bed and she was gone. I am filled with such guilt because I had brought in strays and she was 13 and perhaps I added stress so she died from a heart condition from that. She was only 13 and I have her sister now and am so afraid that will happen again. I can handle taking them to the vet to be put down easier that finding her the way I did. Please if you have older cats get their heart checked, if I had only done that perhaps I could have kept her alive. Do you all believe there is a pet heaven? At least I would be at peace knowing that my baby is happy and having a good time with all her favorite treats and perhaps even with my mom. Thank you for letting me share my grief.

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
 
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown...

Hello! Good Site! Thanks you! xpygqdpcenm

Carole, I am so very sorry for your loss. I am with you as far as feeling the pain of your "Oscar's" loss. I never knew such a little friend could leave such a BIG hole in my heart. Maybe the name "Oscar" has a special
significance when it comes to pets that are so loving. I know that our
Oscar was really special because even the "cat people" loved him. I know you would have also. My deepest sympathy is extended to you and your family.

Yesterday (9/18/07) I also lost Oscar, but this was my cat of 15 years. He was a "Walmart" cat, where the people just want to find homes for their litters. He was a unique cat. Like many cats, HE owned ME. Joan, I'm so sorry for your lost. I know how you hurt. Your Oscar sounds like a very special friend, not only to you, but to all those lives he helped with the Pet On Wheels! My sympathies go out to you.

 To Angel's mom: I lost my best friend of 13 1/2 years last monday. I received his cremains on Friday. I'm feeling all kinds of feelings. Mixed and emotional for over a week. I knew it was coming and tried to make the best of it. That's the advice I can give you right now. I received him after I was diagnosed bipolar and I can't imagine another 13 1/2 without him. Joan, I really feel for you. Sometimes it just takes my breath when I realize he is gone. May you find comfort in this. Dogs love with all they have. Especially a shelter dog!

What a lovely tribute to a meaning-filled life. My prayers are with you in your loss, but perhaps Oscar can now be waiting there with a lick and a wagging tail when it comes time for some of those seniors he visited to make their own passage. His work of love goes on!

Edited by author 09-15-2007 10:42 AM
Yesterday, we lost our beloved "Oscar". He was the finest of dogs,
 loyal and steadfast, rescued as a stray from the Humane Society
of Baltimore County, over 12 years ago. He endeared himself to
everyone who ever met him and was welcomed everywhere he went.
He enjoyed his status as a "Pets on Wheels" pooch and brought so
much joy and love to all those he visited. He especially enjoyed
visiting the Senior Center of Howard County, as Rick, the cook, would
go out of his way to have treats ready anytime "Oscar" would pay a visit. Even though "Oscar" was not really my dog, (he belonged to my daughter) he would willingly go with me whenever I could take him.
What a love he was!!! I truly believe "Oscar" had a soul, as he didn't have a mean bone in his body and would go up to anyone who would call him. We will truly miss our beloved companion and friend "Oscar"..........the little dog that someone didn't want, but
was wanted by everyone who ever knew him.

Kim,

Your Timmy lived a good long life. Sure, he knew you loved him!

This will be a very hard time for you. My husband and I lost our 15 year old boxer boy, Paul, a year ago and it is still hard to wake every day without him.

Billy Graham says that we will see our beloved pets when we get to Heaven. That has to be our goal. It is certainly something I am looking forward to.

You will see Timmy again! Just keep that in mind and hopefully you will be able to make it through this!

Donna



< replied-to message removed by QT >

well i just lost my cat timmy yesterday he was 18 years old i feel so empty he was old just couldnt get up so they had to put him to sleep its the hardest thing to do,i dont know how to get threw this.my 2 dogs died 4 years ago i felt the same way.they are a part of your life.i miss my cat and feel guilty should of spent more time with him i knew he was getting old.was just wondering if any one felt like this.i loved my cat hoped he thought so.kim

Hello! Good Site! Thanks you! qkmeucvpbklvk

I'm sorry to hear about Angel. I have been away from my computer and did not get this message until now. You definitely found the right place to take your grief! This site helps by sharing with others who have been through the loss of a pet! I lost my 18 year old Persian, Precious, more than two years ago! It was sooooo hard! I still cry sometimes because I miss her! Anyway, keep sharing through the grieving process....it helps! Take care!
Sheri

< replied-to message removed by QT >

As soon as I got the news that Angel had only 6 months to live, I called my doctor and went on Zoloft (anti depressant).....it has really helped me. I still get sad, cry every day but I don't feel like being hysterical and distraught. I can function although since I heard the news, I still can't feel joy or happiness. I have a feeling it will be a long time.

When I lost Grace suddenly a few summers ago, I cried myself to sleep every night for three months. As the grief wasn't lessening in that time, I tried to figure out what else might be going on. Since I live alone, it turns out that on top of the grief of losing my best friend, I was plain lonely. I was starting to forge relationships with the spiders in the bathroom! When I got another dog, I still missed Grace, but I began to heal.

I say all of that because sometimes if we're stuck in grief over one thing we can't make any progress toward healing because underneath there is unresolved grief over something else added in. We focus on the thing we're conscious of while the other stuff keeps us from moving forward. With all the losses you've suffered recently, I wouldn't be surprised if your grief isn't a combination of all of them.

While you will always miss Ninja to some degree, you might be most helped by sitting down with your husband and looking at the fears surrounding his cancer and the feelings around the sudden death of your uncle. That may be your block. Imagine Ninja seated beside you with a paw on your lap, wanting you to feel better and know that the God who is now caring for him is also reaching out to you.

July 15,of this year it was 2 months since we said goodbye to our German Shepard Ninja, It feels like yesterday. It hurts so much.He was our baby.We cant have human children and when we got Ninja at 8 weeks old he became our baby.He was more than a pet.Since I hurt my back nearly 4 years ago he was always by my side when i hurt or lost my balance or just making sure i was ok. The 15th would have also been his 9th birthday. i have pictures of him all over the house,but i still find myself bursting into tears or calling his name.
  I thought having his ashes here and knowing for sure what made him sick would help but it hasnt eased our pain.We founf out for sure a month ago he had Kidney Cancer.MY heart and gutt still say it was the canned food but cant prove it.
   I would give anything for one more day with him. I know time heals all wounds but I am begining to have my doughts. My family has been delt one bad thing after another in the past year. Before we found out my husband had prostate cancer we couldnt figure out why Ninja refused to leave his side.A week after getting the news we figured it was his way of telling us that there was something wrong.New years eve we found out my Unlce whom we are were very close to died suddenly. I try to keep telling myself that the good lord doesnt give us more than we can handle,but loosing Ninja is more than I can handle. I never thought that it would hurt so much. i feel like I am loosing my mind,
  Will my heart ever heal?We have changed alot of what we used to do.Not having Ninja here makes it hard to do them. We love the outdoors but spend barely anytime out there now.
   I know my boy is waiting for us on the other side,but it dont ease the pain.Does anyone have any suggestions on what we can do to help ease the pain so we dont go completely crazy.

My boxer, Paul, died at 15 yo last august. We are still greiving. My only consolation is that I know I will see my boy again real soon. Donna

< replied-to message removed by QT >

Diana, even though I am faced with losing the MOST precious beinging in my life, my dog Angel, I do beleive that we will see out good friends again on a different plane. It helps me when I think of loosing Angel on this earth....but, Angel and I have a bond that is out of this world and I do believe that when we connect with a creature on this earth it is not different than connecting with a human. You will see each other again. Hang in there, I know what you are going through and will be there shortly. KM

Hi, I am new here, my dog Angel has been diagnosed with an aggresive form of nasel cancer. She has only a few months left to live. She is my world, my best frind, my partner, my kid......my everything. I am devasted. KM

Hi Diana,

I am sorry to hear about your cat. Why don't you visit the Animal Chaplains website and post about her? You can send a photo or just write in the guest book. Others who read it can offer their love and support.

Please know you are being thought of with love.

Nancy Cronk
www.AnimalChaplains.com

Dear Diana: My prayers and thoughts are with you, as I read your story my heart ached for you. Wee Whimpy is at the Rainbow Bridge. His wings match his fur and he is getting used to them. He has food and water, toys and friends. He is ok....talk to him Diana he will hear you.

Darlene

I'm so sorry to hear of you losing Whimpy!!! You are wonderful for taking care of him. I bet he was a sweety! I have felt the same loss when my 18 year old kitty, Precious, had to be put down. It was 2 years ago that I found her having a seizure and then the vet let me know that she had an enlarged heart. It was so hard to make that decision and I still miss her! Keep talking about it...it will help the grieving! Whimpy loved you and knew you loved him! You'll see him again at the Rainbow Bridge!
God bless!
Sheri

< replied-to message removed by QT >

I quess I just feel better talking about it.One of my cats passed away totally unexpected 3 days ago.Whimpy was born here 10 yrs ago by a mom cat we took in (pregnant) We named him Whimpy because from day one he was a cry baby.About 2 yrs ago. He decided he wanted to live back in our woods. I dint' see him for a couple of days and went looking for him. I dont know why he suddenly wanted to live out in the woods but he would't come home. (about the same time a spayed female we had and him had become good friends and she sudddely disapeard,) We think maybe a cyote got her. Anyway I convinced my husband to put a house up for him near the woods.I put nice blankets in it for him and would go out every day, sometimes 2 times a day and bring him food and water. (filled his bowls)And we would sit and talk a few minutes. I would always say "Whimpy you know you CAN come home" FInally after 2 yrs. this past NOV. He started comming home. So I set up another dog house on my porch for him. He stayed practicly all winter. I thought maybe he was getting artherits thats why he was comming home in the colder weather. He started to stay in his (summer house ) a couple weeks ago. BUt would come home at night. He was here on Wednesday night. And I went out and coverd him with a light fleece blanket as it was a little chilly. The next morning I saw him out by his house . But I was so busy I didnt get out to visit him untill about 10:00 but he already left. Ididnt think much about it as he has done that before. So I just filled his food and water bowls. I called to him, But I did not see him. I figured he must have went out for a while , he would be back later that day. We had just finished dinner and I was checking my email , when my husband said "Whimpy is here" I ran to check on him as he ususally came home a little later . When I went out to him he was on our patio about 5 ft. from our door. He didn't look right. I could see his face looked a little swollen and his eyes were kind of shut. I grabbed him up and brought him into our laundry room, I told my husband he looked like he had heat stroke. He didnt believe me , I got some ice and a wet wash cloth and started to cool him off. He seemd so restless. I coulnt calm him. Then he started panting. And I knew he was in trouble. I had a cat die just 3 months before of heart failure and he looked the same. I got really worried. I called a vet, It was 7:00pm We live 40 mins from a vet. and No one was open! I felt helpless and hopeless. I could do nothing but comfort him. By 8:30 He was dying and so was I . He put his paw up to me to hold and all I could do was cry and tell him I loved him.
I can hardly believe he's gone. My husband and Daughter used to say I was nuts to go out to the woods to take care of that dumb cat. But I felt a special bond with him, And I know he did with me also . Thats why he came home when he was dying. I miss him soooo much..!!I keep hoping Ill look out my window and see him.

So interesting site, thanks!

I'm really impressed!

While this board will remain as it is, I have just started up a new social networking site for animal lovers. Join for free and post a profile on Gotta Love 'Em at http://gottaloveem.ning.com. You can post memorial pictures on your profile, pictures of animals you still have, videos, or whatever. I'm hoping it can be an even more supportive way of communicating, and it gives us a chance to share the good along with the sad.

I know the pain of the loss yall are going through. I had a yorkie named Buffy that I loved dearly. We got her when she was only 6 weeks old and had her to love for a little over eight years. She passed on January 1 2006.I was away visiting at my mothers house for the first week of January and when I came back home my father told me that buffy had passed. They said that she had an enlarged heart and lots of fluid around her heart. It was really difficult for me because they did not tell me untill a week later that Buff had passed away, so i never got to tell her good by and how much I loved her before they took her off of iv's and everything that was helping her to survive and put her at peace like the rest of my family. I was really upset because I had always wanted to bury her in the back yard at my mothers hose where she would love to run and play. They didnt do that. They left her to the er vet clinic. I will always lover her. she was my life. I hope she knows how much i loved her and how much i will always miss her. I still think of her all the time and her memory still brings tears to my eyes. Every day that I had with her was a joy. When i was sad she would come run to me and bark for me to pick her as if to tell me she loved me. Momma loves you baby girl. I miss you a lot and always will.

I'm sorry for your loss! We all understand, that's why we're "here". I lost my Precious kitty 2 years ago and I was just crying about her the other night. I had lots of guilt, too...but I'm over that! I know I did my best for her. She was also 18, had her as I became an adult and on... She was a black Persian and my favorite memory is of when she would cuddle on my chest, close to my face, purring, and lean her nose out and sniff, seemingly waiting for my kiss. Then after I would kiss her nose, she would seem to relax further.
You also did your best for Nikki. She knows you loved her and she didn't care about the rest. Keep sharing your grief, it helps. God bless and remember the Rainbow Bridge.
Take care,
Sheri

#############################################################
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER: This email and any
attachments may be confidential and may contain
privileged or copyright information. If you are not the
intended recipient, please call (816)650-7298 and inform
us that you have received this message in error. Please
do not copy, distribute or use this email or the information
in it for any purpose.
############################################################## < replied-to message removed by QT >

I'm so sorry to hear about your loss! Your Ninja is in a better place now and no longer suffering! I understand your feelings, I had to make that dreadful decision a couple of years ago when my Persian kitty, Precious, she was 18, had an enlarged heart which was causing it to be difficult for her to breath and she had a couple of seizures that we knew about!
It's so hard, but it was the only loving thing you could do!
Hold your memories tight and know that the love you shared will carry onto the Rainbow Bridge.
God bless!

< replied-to message removed by QT >

On may 15,2007 We had to put our beloved German Shapard Ninja to sleep The day before the Vet told us his kidneys were failing and his prostate was enlarge. There was nothing they could do for him. We brought him home that day. The next day I could see the pian in his eyes and made the very painfull choice to let him go.
  i feel so guilty. My heart and home are empty. he was my protector and friend. We had him since he was 8 weeks old and for nearly nine years he filled each day with joy and suprises.After injuring my back 4 years ago it was me and him home all day.He was mommy's boy til daddy got home from work.He was spoiled rotten but i wouldnt have it any other way.
i need some help how to I ease the guilty and empty feeling? I have other animals that are missing him too they arent acting the way they normally would. I have spent the past 2 days in tears,my eyes hurt so bad but my heart hurts more.
 i try to sleep at night holing one of his favorite toys for comfort, Am i normal. i would give anything to have hom home again.
We decided to have him cremated and bring his ashes home.Any help or suggestion would be greatly appreciated.

Hi everyone. I have been grieving the loss of my darling Nikki, a shelty mix, since Monday (5/14). She was 18 and has been with me most of my adult life. I'm like all of you - especially Lisa - I am having a hard time. It's only been two full days and I am feeling better and trying to cope by talking and remembering her great attributes. She was an incredible dog, but now the house is empty...no other pets. Anyway, my heart is broken and I just sobe at night when I get home from work. My kids actually comfort me! My husband and I got her when we were dating. She saw us through marriage and two kids - 16 years!!! I love her and my biggest hurtle right now is guilt. I didn't change her water enough....I wasn't patient enough with her...I didn't give her enough attention...I let her suffer too long....I just feel SO GUILTY. I didn't realize how important she was to my routine...Last night as I was coming up the stairs from getting something in the basement freezer, I realized that she always stood at the top waiting for me to come back. And, when I reached about the 4th stair from the top, I would bend down, eye level with her and kiss her little forehead....I couldn't do that yesterday....I'm just sick to my stomach! And, every time we left the house, I would tell her good-by and reassure her that we would see her later....I told her that yesterday, even though she wasn't there. Being home has been the hardest for me. :(

I'm so sorry to hear of your loss! Molly was very lucky to have you and your husband who cared for her so deeply! She's also lucky to have passed right there with you! I have also felt the sadness of losing one's pet. My baby girl, Percious, was 18 when I had to put her down. She had two seizures in front of me and was diagnosed with an enlarged heart. It took me more than a year to not cry almost everyday about losing her. I take comfort in the fact that she's no longer suffering. Keep mourning, it helps! Eventually you will remember mostly the good times and not feel as much of the sadness!
My heart goes out to you! Take care and wait for the Rainbow Bridge! Sheri

##############################################################
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER: This email and any
attachments may be confidential and may contain
privileged or copyright information. If you are not the
intended recipient, please call (816)650-7298 and inform
us that you have received this message in error. Please
do not copy, distribute or use this email or the information
in it for any purpose.
############################################################## < replied-to message removed by QT >

I am having trouble getting over the loss of my Molly. She passed away at home in my arms on October 7, 2006. She was diagnosed with IMHA in June 2006. I came home from work one night, and she didn't greet me in her usual happy, way that day. She layed on the floor breathing heavy and looking terrible. When I reached down to pet her, I noticed she was covered in diarreah. I immediately rushed her to my local vet, who said her blood count was too low to measure. I was told to rush her to the University of Penn Vet Hospital, immediately, or she wouldn't survive the night. They carried her to my car, and I rushed her to the hospital in the middle of a thunder storm. The hospital admitted her immediately, and quickly gave her a blood transfusion. I layed on the floor of the emergency room all night next to my dog, Molly. They admitted her for 10 days. She was released with medications that were supposed to save her. The best Animal Hospital in the country was going to save her life. They asked me if she ate "onions or perhaps money... change, like penny's" lately. NO! She didn't! In the three months that followed her initial diagnosis, she developed severe staph infections of the skin, lost all her hair, was diagnosed with dozens of other infections, in and out of the hospital every week for three months. I did everything I could for her. I loved her. I cryed non stop, and prayed every day she would beat this and recover. She continued to get sicker and sicker. My husband and I sat down and talked about putting her down. We decided not to. We had already spent close to $15,000 dollars in hospital, vet, and medications. and were willing to spend more to get her well. She was only 5 years old, and she was our baby. We loved her as if she were our child. The next day, she wouldn't eat. She wouldn't take her medications. Everyone in the family went out to dinner, except me that night. After everyone was gone, it was just me and Molly. I layed down next to her on the floor and hugged her. She looked up at me, and smiled, I swear, she took one last breath, and died peacefully in my arms. I can still hear myself scream! I can still feel her breath on my face. I can't get over it... It's been almost 7 months. I still miss her every day. I adopted a new dog, Lady from an animal rescue group, and I love her with all my heart. She's wonderful, and we all love her. But I still cry over Molly. I miss her. I know I did everything I could to help her. She was my baby. My first. I'll miss her forever. IMHA took away my little furry baby, my life savings, and a piece of my heart.
IMHA is a dog lovers worst nightmare. I never heard of it before Molly came down with it. She didn't have any recent vacinations, she didn't drink dirty water, she was a Collie - Not one of the common breeds that are likely to develop IMHA. She was running around, happy go lucky one day.. and the next she was gone.
I'm still unable to accept that there is no cure, no preventable measures I could have taken, and no reason she got it. She should still be here with us. I miss her so much.


Vici

Denial! Boy I can relate! My Precious had for a long time had a very loud "meow" once in a while and I always just thought she was
complaining about something relative to the time. I now know that she was probably complaining of her enlarged heart. I don't know for sure how many seizures she had, I only witnessed 2, but with 20/20 I know now I probably should have made that decision sooner! I just wanted to keep her forever!
Anyway, good luck! Keep loving your pets!
Sheri

##############################################################
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER: This email and any
attachments may be confidential and may contain
privileged or copyright information. If you are not the
intended recipient, please call (816)650-7298 and inform
us that you have received this message in error. Please
do not copy, distribute or use this email or the information
in it for any purpose.
############################################################## < replied-to message removed by QT >

Thank you all for your kind words! This helps me alot! We will always have our Chumpy in our hearts. Every morning I talk to him and say "Chumpy, please forgive me and I know you are in a better place now" We took pictures of him a day before we had to let him go and looking at those pictures last night, made us both realize how sick he was, I guess we were in denial of letting him go, but now we must just remember that we always wanted the best for him. It's just so hard, so hard!! We have 2 other dogs of our own and it's not the same with them, but I know it's not there fault, but I almost feel guilty also of giving them love, knowing that I'm still mourning Chumpy's lost, it's like I feel I have to let enough time go by before I can get back to the way we were. Do you know what I mean? I tell my husband we can't be like that with our other dogs, it's not there fault and we must live in the moment, but it's hard! thank you everyone!

I feel for you! I had to make that same horrible decision for my 18 year old, Precious. She had an enlarged heart and although I could give her meds, when I was late once, she had a seizure and I believe now that she was in pain. It's not the amount of life they have or had, it's the quality and CHumpy obviously had a top quality life. You ended the suffering and only goodness is left. I believe our beloved pets are waiting for us at the Rainbow Bridge. Keep grieving, it's the only way to get through it.
God bless!
Sheri
##############################################################
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER: This email and any
attachments may be confidential and may contain
privileged or copyright information. If you are not the
intended recipient, please call (816)650-7298 and inform
us that you have received this message in error. Please
do not copy, distribute or use this email or the information
in it for any purpose.
############################################################## < replied-to message removed by QT >

John and Lisa,

I absolutely believe that our pets remain connected to us in love even after their bodily passing. So, by all means, say to Chumpy what is on your heart and know that from his perspective now he has full understanding of your love and care for him. Would a loving God not allow that? I believe it is so.

May God bless and comfort you in this difficult time of loss.

We lost our beloved pet, Chumpy on Saturday, Apr. 21, 2007. It was the hardest decision my husband and I made! We miss him so much. He was going to be 14 this Thursday, April 26, 2007. We was very sick hadn't been able to walk for the last past 7 months, but yet we made everything possible to keep in alive. I wish we could have him back!Back the way he use to be, walking and running around. I just want to know if he knows how much we loved him and how much we miss him! Sometimes we think, was that the right thing we did, was it time to let him go?? Then, I answer myself and say "yes, that was no life for him" I don't want to feel guilty anymore of letting him go,but I want to say I Love you one more time!!

We miss you always Chumpy! We love you!!

John & Lisa:)

Hi Pam,

I'm so sorry to hear about Buddy! I'm not a child psychologist, but I'm guessing that there would be different levels of understanding and response in the different ages of your children. I lean toward agreeing with Sheri that they should see him. Especially if they were very attached to Buddy, it will be hard to believe. One of the things I learned in seminary about human deaths and funerals is that one of the purposes of a wake or viewing is to reinforce that the person is truly gone. It helps us move toward seeing the death as a fact we have to accept somehow, someway, even though it seems unthinkable at the time. But I wouldn't force them to see him if they don't want to.

As an aside, make sure Tiger and any other animals in the house have seen Buddy. It helps their grief as well.

I also learned that the purpose of ritual is to help us approach the unapproachable. Having a little funeral for Buddy this evening could be a help. Maybe each person tells a story about Buddy and lays one of his toys or collars on a pile. Say a prayer of thanks for the time you had with Buddy and for God's continued care for him and for you. Light a candle to show that his spirit still lives. Dig a hole in the yard and bury him together. Sadness and crying is beautiful and normal at such a time. This can be an important lesson for them in handling grief and learning to approach death as part of life.

I would advise taking the children aside when they get home from school and tell them what happened. Ask them if they would like to see Buddy one last time. You might need to give them some time to absorb the information, ask questions, and think about whether they want to see him. Then, later this evening, have a little funeral service and put him in the ground. Maybe during the week you could talk about what sort of marker to place on his grave. If you don't have a yard where that is possible, call your vet and ask what to do.

I'm so sorry for your loss. If you come back and post what you end up doing and what has been helpful for your family, I'm sure others would greatly benefit.

Blessings on you and your family in this difficult time,
Anne

I don't have advice but I have lost a kitty, Precious! She had an enlarged heart and when I knew there was nothing more I could do, I scooped her up and took her to the vet with my oldest who was 10. He watched as they injected to lethal dose...it made me sad the way my son crouched to watch her go, but I think it helped him. I do not see why they couldn't see the kitty, but not seeing the kitty would be less tearshed. The vision might stay with them! Not sure what's best! I'm very sorry for your sudden lost. I suppose this is life's opportunity to teach and learn about death and how living does go on!!!
Good luck and God bless!
Sheri

#############################################################
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER: This email and any
attachments may be confidential and may contain
privileged or copyright information. If you are not the
intended recipient, please call (816)650-7298 and inform
us that you have received this message in error. Please
do not copy, distribute or use this email or the information
in it for any purpose.
############################################################## < replied-to message removed by QT >

Our cat, Buddy, died suddenly and unexpectedly this morning. My husband and I were awakened by a loud gutteral moaning. My husband found Buddy lying in the kid's bathroom motionless. He carried him downstairs and Buddy made one more moan and he was gone. We did not tell our three children, ages 15, 12, and 7, and sent them off to school. We wrapped Buddy in a towel and placed him in our garage. We decided to tell our children after school today. They have never experienced the death of a pet and I don't know what to tell them or if they should see him, etc. Does anyone have any advice? Buddy was 8 and has a twin, Tiger.

I wasn't sure if were able to post web addresses here. Here is the one I described below, if you are interested: www.AnimalClergy.com.

Yours in peace and furry friendship,
Chaplain Nancy

Hi,

I just wanted to introduce myself. My name is Chaplain Nancy Cronk. I am interested in meeting other people who are interested in Animal Chaplaincy and Animal Ministry. If you are not sure what those are, please stop by my website called Animal Clergy dot com. Anyone out there interested in what I am? Thanks so much, Nancy Cronk

I think they DO know that you love them, just as you know that they love you!!!
I'm so sorry for your loss!
Pray!
:)

########################################################## ###
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER: This email and any
attachments may be confidential and may contain
privileged or copyright information. If you are not the
intended recipient, please call (816)650-7298 and inform
us that you have received this message in error. Please
do not copy, distribute or use this email or the information
in it for any purpose.
############################################################## < replied-to message removed by QT >

During my Jet's illness, I was supposed to put him on wet/gravy food. Its a shock that I gave him Western Family gravy meals, and I even shared the cans with the other two just to be fair. I recall Jet vomiting and his son vomited at least 3 or more days 2 times at once. My vets were all so swamped by the extreme emergencies during Feb and March which they could not fathom. Now the secret is out, the animals had tainted food. I don't know how anyone else feels but my dogs were affected but I never kept those cans.

Re: My love Jet, Fieldancer's But I'm A Hunter (Int. Cnd. Champ. Black Flat-coated Retriever April 04-200 to March 09, 2007)

Just like the other family here, I also could not be with my loving friend Jet as he lay there, sick and on morphine, and the injection came. I do not believe in tacking life. I certainly feel guilty to the nth degree that I could not take him home, and keep trying. Inside I am not convinced that he would have rallied the next day. He had done it. I lay beside him on the floor at the Vet's for 4 hours, talking, singing, loving him. Not willing to let him die. I could not tell him that this was his last day. How do you tell the very loving, and trusting pet that today, I think its time. A few think an animal should pass on their own time, and I beleive this. I loved Jet, I really hurt that he is gone. I have two other dogs, Riley (9) and Kobi (1.5). Kobi is his purebred puppy, but so different than Jet.

I wish I could know for certain that Jet knows I love him. I truly wish that I could get over the image of him looking for me, and wondering where I went and missing me. That would be Jet. I want Jet to know, don't worry baby, I am also looking for you, any sign that means that you are okay. I hate being so selfish & I wish I could go and bring you home.

I feel so sad, hurt, lonely and guilty.

Mommy lovs You Jet.

I have lost beloved pets, and this book 'Will I See Fido in Heaven?' by Mary Buddemeyer-Porter has been wonderful. And check out http://geocities.com/marcswebsites4/ if you wish - that's my concept of heaven.

Our sweet precious Westie "Sugar" left us on Jan. 16, 2007. The hardest part is that we were traveling at the time and didn't get to say goodbye and be with her at the end. Our wonderful daughter took care of everything. Sugar had numerous medical problems over the years. It seemed like everytime she saw her vet, there was another problem found. She was definietly the center of our lives, our entire world worked around her schedule and medications. We were blessed with this sweet puppy for ll wonderful years. Although there were so many problems, she seemed to take everything in stride. I was able to be on the phone with our daughter when Sugar died, I told Sugar how much we love her and would see her again. I only pray that she felt I was with her. I know she will be watching for us at the Rainbow Bridge. We had her cremated, now I keep her ashes close to me as often as I can, I sleep with her favorite toy, I look at pictures all the time and can't seem to stop crying. I feel like part of myself left with her. I know I need to accept the fact that she is gone, but it is so hard, when we left that day she seemed fine. I just wish with all my heart, I could hold her one more time and tell her that I love her.

 My wife and I lost our " Precious " on Feb.3rd, 2007 we believe she was an American Eskimo Miniature. I found her on the 4th of July in 2003 she was abandoned at our apartment complex, she was roaming the area, I still can't believe someone could abandon such a beautiful and loving little ball of white fur. My wife had just lost her dad and we had talked about maybe getting a small dog. We also have a full blooded German Shepherd who weighs over 100 pounds and yes he is grieving too. Our little Precious ruled the house, she was daddies little girl, she would always come and sit to my left and she would lean back and I'd scratch her tummy!! There are so many things she did that would make us smile and laugh!! We miss her so much now that she's gone that there are constant reminders now, which just makes us cry, we know she's in a better place. My wife is a nurse and we have had the oppurtunities to do a lot of traveling and our 2 dogs have always gone with and now we will be going to Nashville, Tenn. and this will be a tough road to travel since she will not be with us, but she will always be with us in our hearts and in spirit. She left our lives as quickly as she came into them. She was only with us for a few short years, but those are years we will never forget!! Thank You for letting me share my Precious's passing and on our continued grieving for our loved one.

Alan,

I'm so sorry to hear about Rowdy. While he lived a good, long life, the longer he was with you, the deeper the bond became. There's no magic bullet...it's just plain hard and sad. It does, literally, make your heart hurt. So many of us have been there.

We are certainly praying for you and hope you know that Rowdy is still with you in spirit to offer what comfort he can. Cry as you need to and know that you have made the world a better place by loving and caring for Rowdy.

I lost my best friend "Rowdy" this past Thursday.
  Rowdy,was a Gordon setter and we had been together for 15 years.It was a growth on his left rear foot pad.Since dogs balance on their pads,surgery wasnt an option.
  We had been living with this for the past year.

  I am finding it extremely hard to get past his loss.Every day,his absence is heart felt.My Best friend is no longer there to share the daily routines.

  Alan

hi everyone.
pls if you are interst in dogs pls compose to me. and you see the dogs you wanted, and if you want to see your lost dog pls compose to me i will show you the pics of dogs online whit me.and if you see yourc own dogs tell and i will send it to you enywhere you are.
 my name:adamswaters
my email adress:waters_2009@yahoo.com

Hi again, here's a link to a website devoted to the passing of a beloved dachshund. http://mysite.verizon.net/vzeq7h0e/lewis/index.html What a tribute and a positive way to work through the grieving process.
Peace to your heart.

You will see Sadie again at the Rainbow Bridge. I'm so sorry, I know the feeling. I had to put my 18 year old kitty, Precious, to sleep a couple of years ago. You are doing the right thing by finding this web site and sharing your grief. That's the only way to get through it. Be glad for Sadie's life, try to think only of the good times!!!
Take care and God bless!

#############################################################
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER: This email and any
attachments may be confidential and may contain
privileged or copyright information. If you are not the
intended recipient, please call (816)650-7298 and inform
us that you have received this message in error. Please
do not copy, distribute or use this email or the information
in it for any purpose.
############################################################## < replied-to message removed by QT >

I feel so sad. My best friend, Sadie, was put to sleep last week. She was only 8 yrs old. She was a beautiful Golden Retriever. She had cancer and diabetes. Last March, the vet found a lump on her abdomen. It was cancer. He removed it and she got better. By June, she had developed a rare kind of diabetes. She slowly slipped away getting thinner and thinner. Two years ago she weighed 87 lbs. When she died, she was around 55 lbs. It was heartbreaking for me to watch. She was one of those special dogs that only comes along once in a lifetime. I know Sadie loved us as much or more than we loved her. I can't stop thinking of her. We had so much fun together. She loved to go on long walks. My neighbors are also dog lovers. We would all take our large breed dogs and go on walks in our neighborhood. We even had "dog parties" this past summer. We would go for a swim in my neighbors swimming pool (dogs and people). Sadie had a very good life. I'm just sad it had to end so soon. I hope I see her again someday.

More than two years ago I lost my kitty, Precious. Turned out she had an enlarged heart and I didn't know until I witness a seizure. Who knows how long she had suffered with that. I know how hard it can be, she was my best buddy for 18 years. Grieving is good! This web site helped me immensely with that. We are only human and we love our pets and do the best we can for them. Try not to feel guilty. Kato is waiting at the Rainbow Bridge for you:)

############################################################ #
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER: This email and any
attachments may be confidential and may contain
privileged or copyright information. If you are not the
intended recipient, please call (816)650-7298 and inform
us that you have received this message in error. Please
do not copy, distribute or use this email or the information
in it for any purpose.
############################################################## < replied-to message removed by QT >

My best friend for 11 years, Kato, a handsome pomeranian mix suddenly died. No one knew he had Cushing's Disease and diabetes...........not even his vet, friends he stayed with sometimes, me, absolutely no one. We all thought he was just getting "old". I feel so damn guilty and feel I let him down because I was supposed to be taking care of him!!

I can't stop thinking about him.

I can tell by your writing that Tommy was treated the best any cat could be. I had to make the same dreadfully difficult decision when Precious, my 18 year old black Persian, had her second seizure due to an enlarged heart. It's so hard, but you came to the right place for dealing! There are grieving articles, prayers, and friendly people who have been there and share in your grief. I wish you quick grief, followed by fond memories!!!
Sheri :)

########################################################### ##
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER: This email and any
attachments may be confidential and may contain
privileged or copyright information. If you are not the
intended recipient, please call (816)650-7298 and inform
us that you have received this message in error. Please
do not copy, distribute or use this email or the information
in it for any purpose.
############################################################## < replied-to message removed by QT >

So, after loving him, holding him, speaking our last words to him, we were on our way. We were not able to go to our regular veterinarian office because it was Sunday, so we took him to a local emergency office that our daughter had taken her dog to last year. There we said our last good byes, told him we loved him and asked him to say "Hi" to Simmy for us.
We then gave him to a very nice assistant who cuddled him and promised us she would hold him and stay with him until it was all over. We thanked her while slowly our tears began to fall. It was just impossible for us to go with him on his last journey. . .we had done all we could for him and our love would have to be with him as this gentle lady took him on his way. We waited in the peaceful lobby until the doctor came out to tell us Tommy had gone peacefully. Our dear companion was no longer out of touch with us. . . he was now in our hearts forever, suffering no longer. It was a very difficult thing to do, but we knew in our hearts it was what was best for him. We will miss him dearly, the tears are falling rapidly now, but God willing, we will learn to accept our loss and live with the 16 years of wonderful memories we have to hold dear. We hope Tommy and Simmy are together again, enjoying each other as they did when they amused and loved us.
   Sorry this took up so much space, but I wanted you to know how difficult it can be to make such a decision, but know it will be guided by love all the way. Our best to you and anyone knowing our path.

Hello, Today has been a very sad day for our family. We decided it was time to put our dear Tommy to rest. Tommy was 16 years old and was in renal failure. He was blessed, as were we, not to have a prolonged illness. His brother, Simpson (Simmy to us) had a much longer illness of the same kind. We did the IV of fluids with Simmy, but chose not to do so with Tommy. Simmy was a very docile cat, whereas Tommy was always very fisty (sp?). Simmy sat very calmly while we administered the IV, but we knew Tommy would never do the same. Tommy's symptoms only showed up within the last two weeks. A week ago today he remained scarce about the house. . .Tommy was always where we were. . . he would climb up on the vanity in my bathroom and sleep while I put on my makeup and did my hair. . . he would sleep for hours in my husbands' open briefcase on the desk while Gary did his necessary paperwork. . .wherever we were, Tommy snuggled as close to us as he could. For a couple of days he would cry while attempting to use his litter. We were definately concerned and made sure plenty of water was available to him and urged him to drink often.
Then he began to "hide" around the house in out of the way places. . .
I really believed he was "teaching" us how to "get along without him."
Finally he wasn't eating at all and drinking very little. We could not get him to eat, but we were able to get him to take a few sips of water. I put water in a very shallow Lenox bone china dish so he wouldn't have to "stand" while drinking. He was keeping to himself until one day last week he came up two flights of stairs to be with me in my bathroom! I was elated! I called my husband at work and left a message that Tommy had "come all the way upstairs!" Gary later said I sounded like I had just won the lottery! For the next couple of days Tommy roamed about the house a little...one night he even came into our bed! We discovered one morning that he was taking little steps to achieve his goal. He was on his way upstairs, but a few stairs up, he had stopped for a nap! A little while later, under our careful watch, he had progressed a little further up the stairs and now napping very close to a door way. This continued until he reach his destination where he slept peacefully for hours. Each evening I would cuddle him on my lap, stroking his neck, ear, back while he lay peacefully in my arms while we read or watched TV. We were afraid to take him upstairs, fearing he would not be able to get back down and perhaps tumble and hurt himself, so I would lay on the couch with him laying on my chest, holding him to keep him warm and secure. Soon we found it more difficult to pursuede him to drink---he had not eaten anything since last Sunday. He got up less often and when he tried to walk, he was wobbly and didn't go far before collapsing. We wanted so much to see some improvement, but we knew it was not to be. Saturday evening we decided it was time. We reasoned that we should take this opportunity because he was not crying. We thought as the disease progressed, he might begin to suffer and we did not want this. . .fearing this would begin during the nighttime when we could not visit the veternarian. It was our decision to take him Sunday morning before he got in "real" distress. We had already lost contact with him. . .he was just "there". . .letting us hold, stroke, and speak to him, but not responding. . .his eyes were a million miles away.

I feel I was in a similar situation, I do have a brother but he is 8 years older than me and I had a Persian kitty named Precious. I found her abandoned and took her home when she was 6 months. I had her until she was 18 too! She had an enlarged heart and had two seizures that I know of. When I witnessed the second seizure, I knew it was time. I did not think about it, I took her to the vet and asked if it was time, they let me listen to the fluid in her lungs and I KNEW. I stayed with her, held her little head, and thought how much I loved her as they injected the deadly dose. It was peaceful and I have visited the pet cemetery where her ashes are spread often. I loved her so very much. Now as I look back at her life, I often feel that I probably should have had her put down sooner. I think she was suffering more than I knew.
I would encourage you to put your kitty to rest. It will be very hard, but you are the one to be strong for your kitty. They love you and know that you love them. They will be waiting for you at the Rainbow Bridge. It sounds like you are 38? I'm 37. I know it will hurt very much, but that's true whenever this happens. This site has many helpful articles and prayers for our beloved pets. I wish you love and luck and if you would like to talk more, just let me know!
Sheri Williams
sawilliams@fortosage.net

##############################################################
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER: This email and any
attachments may be confidential and may contain
privileged or copyright information. If you are not the
intended recipient, please call (816)650-7298 and inform
us that you have received this message in error. Please
do not copy, distribute or use this email or the information
in it for any purpose.
############################################################## < replied-to message removed by QT >

Beanie, I am so sorry to hear about Jellybean. It does sound like she is at the end of her long and wonderful time with you. Can she curl up and sleep? How is her breathing? Does she cry a lot? If she is able to find a comfortable position to sleep and her breathing isn't labored; if she isn't always crying out, then she can probably end her life right there in the peace of your home, whenever that time comes.

You didn't mention if you had other cats, but if so, let them come around. I witnessed the most amazing thing when the cat of a friend of mine was in her last days. It was an outdoor cat, and as his body began to shut down, he went out and lay under a tree. For a day and a half, other cats in the neighborhood came and visited. Like people visiting a loved one for the last time each cat came and sat for awhile by the dying cat and then moved on. Then another one came and kept vigil. Then another.

I'm not a vet, but I would say to honor these last days as you might for the passing of a beloved elder in the family. It can be sacred time. Sit with her and stroke her. As best you can let the atmosphere around her be soothing. If you can fix her a bed by a window so she can see the outdoors, do so. I would not take her to be euthanized unless it is clear to you that she is always agitated, is breathing exceptionally hard...panting...or if you are simply too emotionally distraught in seeing her.

You are both in my prayers.

My cat has a problem. I am an only child, an only grandchild, and have had Jellybean since I was 10 years old. She has renal disease at the age of 18. I've never lost a loved one, with the exception of my father when I was 5. Jellybean is not eating, bathing herself, and her canines have fallen out, despite sub-cutaneous treatment. She is now experiencing an inability to walk with her rear right paw.
My question is, how do I know when she is suffering? How can I cope with this? Do I euthanize her?
Someone please help me.

beanie

It's so true!!! WE are in good company, those who have lost beloved pets we consider our children!!! Poetry.com is place that published one of my poems, of course they wanted me to buy the book afterwards, but at least it is published. I wish you much luck in the grieving process. Keep writing, it helps!!!
Sheri :)

########################################################### ##
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER: This email and any
attachments may be confidential and may contain
privileged or copyright information. If you are not the
intended recipient, please call (816)650-7298 and inform
us that you have received this message in error. Please
do not copy, distribute or use this email or the information
in it for any purpose.
############################################################## < replied-to message removed by QT >

my heartfelt sympathies go out to all on this site!! we all seem to be in good company. we are goodhearted, loving people that have lost someone so dear to us. i too lost my baby blacky on the 8th sept. he was 13. it hurts so much that i feel sick at my stomach. very few people that you think are your friends want to talk to you about this. so you somethimes feel so alone in your grief. i have heard it said that THROUGH ADVERSITY YOU FIND OUT WHO YOUR REAL FRIENDS ARE~ and i believe it to be true. also can anyone answer my question about the death of a pet? do you believe that the sudden death of a pet has a distinctive purpose or is it just something that happens?? and last but not least i have begun to compose some poetry in memory of my beloved blacky.any ideas on wher and how to get them published?? everyone that i let read them think they are real goo, but i would like a professional opinion!!

Thank you Darlene,

Dear Maria:
   
  My heart aches for you but know that he is at the Rainbow Bridge watching over you. He knows how much he meant to you and that you love him
  Fondly, Darlene

QuickTopic daily digest <qtopic+22-c6bs47VU3wk@quicktopic.com> wrote:


Darlene
< replied-to message removed by QT >

Sam's Mom, thanks for sharing your story about Sam, Sebastian and Zoe. It is both heartbreaking and comforting. You are right, many can not understand the depth of our relationships with our pets. I am so glad to have found this place and people that understand this deep pain and grief. I still can't believe Buddy is gone. We live on a farm. My sons buried Buddy behind the house next to the pond he used to love to swim in. Everytime I look out the window I see his grave and start crying again. I know the time I had with him was a great blessing. He brought us so much joy. My sister was very supportive, she went through this a few times herself since she had pets all her life. Her advice was to get another dog soon, not as a replacement for Buddy nobody ever will replace him but to get a new friend that may help ease my grief. I didn't want to think about getting another dog it feels so disloyal to Buddy but reading your story, I am beginning to consider it.
God bless!

The people here are just the best...thank you all!

Marie and those grieving. I lost my 15 year old samoyed Sam to cancer on December 12, 2005. I still remember holding her head while they injected the shot. That is the hardest, waiting for her to open her eyes and look at me again. As many of you my grief was uncontrolable for days. I was unable to go home the next morning after laying her down. Knowing that her body was at the vets and the vet only a block away, I even walked to the vets in the middle of the night, sat beside the building wall and cried. After bringing the girls to school, knowing the house would be empty I decided to take a drive out to the farm of our vetrinary assistant. Many dogs, cats, cows, and horses. There were eight little rat terrier puppies in the barn. I held these little babes in my down jacket for hours and cried in the hay loft. The mother was not interested in nursing any longer and the runt was so small and unable to make it safely to the kibble let alone eat it. Weighing only one pound, I just could not leave her there in our below freezing temperatures. She slept in may jacket by my heart the whole way home. I would never have thought I could buy another dog the next day and initially felt somewhat guilty. However my Zoe is the sweetest, cuddliest, and loving companion. Everyday when she goes outside, she rolls around constantly out front under the tree where Sam would lay the last months of her life. I believe that Sammy brought her to me because I never could have gone on without diverting my attention from my insurmountable grief. I had spent the last two months constantly caring for her and her cancer, I didn't know what to do. I know that Sammy is here with us every day. You see Sammy was the calmest animal in the world. When we first adopted Sebastian the cat, Sammy would not tolerate her teasing playful nature. She taught Sebastian to be mild mannered as well. Our vet continues to be amazed by Zoe's calm nature for what is in general an extremely wild and hyper dog. He has been treating her parents, grandparents, brothers and sisters for several generations. Although I lost my Sammy, I believe I still have a part of her in Sebastian and Zoe past down from pet to pet. I have Sam's ashes and will take them with me when I move. I don't believe that many can understand the depth of our relationships with our pets. Don't be so hard on yourself, you were both blessed to have been together. Blessings and prayers.

My 3 year old german shepherd Buddy got run over by a truck yesterday while I was at work. My son had to put him down. I am devastated. Cried all night. I went to work today and couldn't tell anyone. Buddy and I were so close. I couldn't wait to get home from work every day to see Buddy. We went for long walks together every weekend. His favorite toy was a tennis ball. He loved icecream and hot dogs. I hate to go home today.

You're welcome, Donna. I know how hard it is!!!! This web site helped me through the start of my grieving and continues to help through my communications here. If you haven't already, you should print The Rainbow Bridge poem and keep it in sight!!!
God be with you,
Sheri Williams

##############################################################
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER: This email and any
attachments may be confidential and may contain
privileged or copyright information. If you are not the
intended recipient, please call (816)650-7298 and inform
us that you have received this message in error. Please
do not copy, distribute or use this email or the information
in it for any purpose.
############################################################## < replied-to message removed by QT >

thank you!

Thank you, Sheri. I needed to hear that.

Donna Parks

I'm sorry for the loss of Paul!!! One year ago June, I lost my Precious Persian kitty of 18 years! I understand the feelings of loss and I know that she is there waiting for me at the Rainbow Bridge. God would not give us such a treasure here on earth if we could not re-connect in heaven! Have faith and know he is waiting for you!!
Sheri

##############################################################
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER: This email and any
attachments may be confidential and may contain
privileged or copyright information. If you are not the
intended recipient, please call (816)650-7298 and inform
us that you have received this message in error. Please
do not copy, distribute or use this email or the information
in it for any purpose.
############################################################## < replied-to message removed by QT >

Donna, I'm glad you found your way here. As you can see, we've all been through it, and we all know that the bond we shared was too deep to be broken by death. Love is eternal and you will be with Paul again one day. But I know it sure does hurt in the meantime. Take time for yourself to grieve. We are all praying for you.

I lost my most beautiful friend last night; my boxer, Paul of 15 years. If he did not go to Heaven, then I do not want to go. Surely, our most precious babies go to Heaven. DonnaGuytonParks@Hughes.net.

Hi Garsom: Bentley and I will say a very special prayer for you tonight, Please know that your Furbaby is playing with all the otehrs that have gone before him at the Rainbow Bridge. My Oscar Myer had to go there Three years ago this past May. They know how much we love them and that they will always be in our hearts and in our heads.

Alisa I will pray for you as well. I believe we are feeling the same emotions right now and it is so painful. One thing has made me smile though. I bet Gaia and Chance are playing together right now. God Bless.

I also lost my dog on Wednesday. He was a shihtzu samed Chance. He had a good long life for a dog. But, he had a heart condition. He loved music. My husband plays in the Praise and Worship group at our church, and Chance loved to be by his side when he was practicing music. He loved oranges, and to eat fish. He had about 20 nick names, like feathers, Handsome Harry, and a host of others. I see him all over the house. We have another dog, who seems to miss him to. I cried for a straight 24 hours, my eyes looked like a prize fighter. The Lord led me to Eccl. chapter 3 yesterday. That really helped me. I prayed for God to comfort me and my family, and He truly has. I believe Chance is in heaven, and waiting for us when our time comes. He was special, really special. I told him the day he left us it's ok to go and be with Jesus now. My grief is very deep, I feel like my guts have been ripped out. It doesn't help me to know it was Chances time to go, I know that, but, it still hurts so very much. My prayers to all of you who have lost a special someone. I love you Chance, and always will. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>

Our dog, Gaia passed away today. I am so very sad and my heart hurts.

Gaia was the sweetest animal. He had the kindest, most gentle soul. Gaia truly was a gift from God.

What is so hard is that we were not able to say goodbye. Gaia had been at the vet's since Tuesday. They were trying to find out what was wrong with him. Today they found out. While in surgery, they found three masses in his intestine. They had to end it right then and there. No goodbyes, no hugs. He didn't deserve that. He was special and I truly mean that.

I always used to scoff at those who lost their pets and acted as though someone in their family had died. I will never do that again. I feel the hurt and I would not wish this on my worst enemy.

I love you Gaia. You are an amazing dog. I can feel your spirit and I thank you and God for that. People wonder if there is a heaven. Having you bless my life, I have no doubt. I love you.

Oh, I am so sorry. It is literally a heart-breaking time. Give yourself time to grieve. I cried myself to sleep for three months when Grace died last year. It will get better...hang on to that. But it will be awhile. My prayers are with you.

My doggie has passed. I love you Gaia. Lots.