Digby was a very smart dog. Potty training was easy, as well as basic commands like sitting, lay down, and “No”. However, he also would take instruction for tricks, such as “bang” or “get the bee” or “give a ride”. Anytime you would motion like you were going to shoot him, Digby would plop down on the ground and put his legs in the air. If a bee was in sight all you had to do is say “get the bee”, one chomp and it took its last flight. The bee might have felt safe while flying around five to six feet from the ground, but he wasn’t. Give a ride was something that thoroughly tickled us. By the time our daughter was two years old, she could get into her Little Tykes wagon and Digby would pull her around the yard, delicately and cautiously, for hours at a time. Digby knew that she was young and needed guidance and care. A trait he always displayed around her.

When he was four we noticed him having some medical issues and scheduled tests to narrow down the problem. We were told that he had a condition with his liver and most likely would not live past the age of 7. This news was very disheartening and we worked around giving him a better lifestyle, healthier food, and spoiling him rotten. Come to find the condition was a misdiagnosis and Digby made out like a bandit for nearly a decade until the unfortunate news of cancer.

Watching an animal suffer is something that is very difficult. They are your children and part of your family. The decision to put this family member to a peaceful state, without forcing him to endure any further pain, is something we, as a family, chose to do. The process was very sobering. The experience of petting our little “son” until his heart stopped beating was a powerful event, not without great depression, but one with sentiment nonetheless. In fact, it has been several years since his passing, and neither I nor my wife drive down the Vet’s street anymore, even though it is right in the neighborhood. I mentioned it to my wife recently, and she had noticed that I won’t drive by the Vet’s office, either. It’s kinda funny, but after posting this, I think I will go for a drive through the neighborhood.

I have had to “put to sleep” and gone through the pain and Pet Loss Grief with three of my furry friends in the last eighteen years.  Chuck our “Spotted Dog” as we called him because he had diabetes and went blind.  Noche, our long haired gray Persian cat that had cancer.  And  then Jordie, our most beloved and precious cat that developed renal failure.  Jordie loved me so unconditionally, and I her.  I have never  had a pet love me like she loved me.  She was such a special cat.  It is hard enough to “put to sleep” the one you love because of failing health… and in an act of compassion, but why should we “euthanize”  a helpless furry  animal just because there is not a loving homes to be found for them?

You know what I mean.  Anyone that has had to put down a loved one knows exactly what I mean.  We would give almost anything to have them back and have an opportunity to give them a second chance that the thought of needless euthanasia because of over population is intolerable.

There are so many dogs, cats and other small animals that are ready to be loved.  To spay and neuter our little ones is the only humane thing to do. Did you know that just two stray cats can produce over 100 offspring in only a few years?

If you think about wanting a little puppy, kitten or a well behaved mature animal, just go to any local animal shelter and take a look around.  There are literally hundreds of puppies, kittens and older animals wanting a good home.  It’s not their fault that no one wanted them.  How sad. That’s why the Humane Societies around the country offer free spay and neutering with all adoptions. They know that there are too many animals that are put to death for no other reason than that there are just  not enough homes to place these needy animals in.

So, even if you get a young dog or cat through a private party, please give considerable thought to having your pet spayed or neutered.  If your pet were to get out during “heat”, or as so often times happens some stray pet jumps your fence, the world does not need an unwanted litter.  How would you feel if one of these little pups or kittens had to be euthanized because you couldn’t find homes for them?

So please, won’t you consider following the Humane Societies lead to Spay and Neuter.♥

We are all aware of disaster planning for people, but did you remember to plan for your household pet?  It's not the time to figure out what to do when the disaster or emergency occurs. Not only will you be dealing with the trauma and aftermath of the incident,  but it will be even more devastating if you have to deal with the Pet Loss Grief of your furry friend because your Pet Died or they ran away during the crises.

Here are a few tips to help you prepare:

• You should keep properly fitting collars with ID tags on both your cat and dogs, even if they are indoor only.  You never plan for them to run away, but in an emergency it could easily happen and this way they can be returned to you.

• Have a kennel and care package for each animal packed and ready to go.  Some items to include are:

   

   

  • A leash and perhaps even a muzzle.  Even if your lovable friend is not usually aggressive,  fear may  turn them that way.  Bring a stake and tie leash for each dog so they don't always need to be confined in the kennel.

  • Pack enough food and water for a week.  Bring sturdy food and water dishes or feeders and remember a hand can opener and plastic lids for the opened can of food.

  • Make a copy of current veterinary records including vaccinations.  Having your vets phone number and address is a good idea.  Keep them stored in a zip lock baggie to keep them safe and dry.  These will come in handy if the originals get destroyed.  Also keep several current photos that could be handed out in case your little ones get lost in the confusion.

  • Pack medications just as you would for people.  Be sure to include a pet first aid kit.  You'll need wound cleaning and bandaging material.

  • Keep supplies to collect and dispose of pet waste.  Zip lock bags are good for waste, but also are good to keep fresh kitty litter.  Don't forget a kitty box and scoop.

  • Consider setting up a "support system" with neighbors, family or friends.  Having someone ready to step in and take your pets will be helpful.  Keep a list of names and numbers in the emergency kit.  Consider writing a letter of authorization in case your pet needs veterinary treatment.

  • Also don't forget to pack items of comfort.  You know you buddy the best, so pack his favorite blanket or toy.  He will be as stressed out during this time as you are.

You can never be too prepared for an emergency and neither can your pets.  Contact your local organizations that can help you in an emergency situation including the Humane Society, SPCA, Animal Shelter and even the American Red Cross.  They can also help you better prepare with their "Prep Lectures".  Remember to keep your kit current.  A good time to update the content is during the "Daylight Savings Time Changes".  You change the batteries in the smoke detectors, use this time to update medication, vet records, pictures and rotate in fresh food.

Taking these steps now can save you a world of heartache later.  Your furry friends will thank you!♥ 

If you have any ideas or items that I didn't mention, please let us know so we can all be prepared.

Whether it is an accident or you have had to put your loyal companion to sleep, as it so often happens, unfortunately it leaves a terrible image in your mind that you repeat over and over again.

Angel’s mom decided to deal with her pet loss grief in a proactive manner.  She had so many happy memories and only one or two regrets that she decided to surround herself with as many of Angel’s pictures as she could.  She put Angel’s pictures on her phone as her wallpaper and changed them several times a day for several days based on what she would normally be doing at that time of day.  She filled her mind with pictures of happy times to slowly push out the bad pictures she had of that last day.  This picture of Angel with the mushrooms is a happy memory.  She told me she was walking in her yard and came upon these huge mushrooms, just as she was snapping the picture Angel ran in and posed!  That was Angel, front and center.  The thought of that day brings a smile to her face.

One regret she had was that she never had a professional portrait done with Angel.  She thought she would have all the time in the world.  Fortunately, she has plenty of home pictures but she always wanted to go to a studio and have a pet portrait taken.  Let this be a friendly reminder, don’t put off your dreams or ideas.  You never know what tomorrow holds.

I know this may not be the right approach for everyone.  I have 3 members of my family and friends that I know that can’t do this.  To write a story about their life or to see their pictures come up on the screen saver is just too painful.  But just like Angel’s mom, or Digby’s dad, sharing their life made them feel better.  Read the post about Digby.  Digby’s dad couldn’t drive past the vets office, even though it was the shortest route to the grocery store.  After writing his story and posting it, it brought closure for him.  You have to find your way through the grief process that is right for you.  Whatever you decide, don’t let anyone make you feel foolish.  You need to grieve this loss in your own way just as you would grieve the loss of a human.

Non pet lovers don’t understand.  So surround yourself with the people who love their pets as much as you do.  Grieve their loss.  Remember them.  They were an important part of your life and they should not be forgotten.  I hope this post helps you come to terms with your loss, and I hope your heart heals quickly.♥

“USA PHILATELIC: The Official Source For Stamp Enthusiasts”.  This come directly from the United States Postal Service monthly magazine.

I just started getting this in the mail and for the last two months the cover has been about “Animal Rescue” and “Adopt a Shelter Pet”.

They are working really hard to help those pets in need and to help get them adopted from the shelters. Did you know that the latest statistic show that 8 million animals are turned over to shelters yearly and that 4 million are euthanized?  So you can see why the USPS Animal Rescue program is so worth while.

This is the perfect way to enjoy your stamps but they also have a wide variety of other products to choose from like: Shelter Pet Notecards that include 10 notecards, envelopes and matching stamps.  They even have an All About Your Best Friend Book to record those special moments of your newly adopted  cat or dog friend.  They have Stamp Artwork, Mugs and Coasters.  You can even get a Pet Adoption Certificate.  Who knew?

“Learn more about the Animal Rescue: adopt a shelter pet campaign at  www.stampstotherescue.com.”

For more stamp info, look for Surf Beyond The Perf  http://www.beyondtheperf.com/ .  Join the USPS “FREE online community and get the latest in stamp and stamp-related news”.

She was a treasured gift from my youngest child, my daughter.

Amy and Angel (and her canine mom, Cricket) flew here together when Angel was just a few weeks old. It was Angel’s first of many plane rides. Angel’s parents, Cricket and Ewok, had moved to Washington state with Amy when she left home.

Being an “empty nester” had given me an unexpected feeling of loneliness. Fortunately, when Angel arrived she did an excellent job of filling that void just by allowing me the pleasure of being her new caretaker and companion.

But, it wasn’t easy to bond with her in the beginning. She was headstrong and opinionated. Although she never lost her independent nature, we did manage to build a very special bond and friendship together. I actually think she mellowed with age, like I know I have.

Angel was taken from me unexpectedly in a tragic event a few days ago. We only had 4 and a half short years together, but losing her in such a way has been devastating for me. I’ve run the gamut of blaming myself for not protecting her better to wishing we had been somewhere else that sad day. But I know she deserves better than me feeling guilty and sad. She deserves for me to celebrate her life and the sweet memories we made together.

We traveled extensively, by car and by plane. She was a tremendous companion and always adapted easily to new places and situations. And she loved meeting new people, like most dogs do.

Thank you, my sweet Angel baby, for the adventures we shared. You never complained when I worked too much or when I was depressed about something. Your love and companionship was more of a blessing in my life than mere words can ever express. Thank you for everything you taught me about unconditional love and how to appreciate canine companionship on a deeper level than I had ever experienced before.

I sincerely hope we meet up again someday so we can hug and run and play and laugh together once more.

Jan 17, 1995 – Sept 27, 2008

 Pennee Lane came to me in February 1996, abused, broken and without the will to live. She was brought to me by my Aunt who lives in Kentucky and had one of her cousins. Living in a small town in a “holler” in Kentucky affords you the privilege to know everyone, including the animal control officer. She had just picked up Pennee, after a neighbor’s complaint brought her to a trailer, where Pennee was tied up with a rope around her neck tied to a cinder block. She had been burnt from the neck to the base of her tail, with what, I don’t know. A mother dog living wild, had tried to take care of her but gave her mange in her wounds. Her ear had a human bite mark and she had a broken rib that was healing. Before animal control had her euthanized, she called my aunt and asked her if she knew anyone who wanted a sickly little poodle. So my aunt drove her to my home in Virginia and thus the bond between me and the best friend I ever had began.

Pennee died in my arms the night she was brought to me. I was terrified of the mouth to snout and my prayers were answered when she yelped and started to cling to me. I promised her if she hung on until Monday, I would make her better and no one would ever hurt her again. My husband insisted on calling her “short time” and making fun of her ill appearance. I finally got mad and told him that Pennee would be there long after he was gone.

Two years later, he was gone and she was there for me every time I needed someone to talk to. She licked my tears and would literally smile at me. During her time with me, she was my ever present shadow. She was so smart, bringing momma a tissue, getting money out of my purse for the ice cream man, dancing her pirouettes to Smokey Robinson’s “My Girl” and to her namesake, The Beatles’ “Penny Lane”.  I taught her to sit, and roll over and lay down and crawl like an Army Ranger. No one has ever been so loyal to me.

I spoiled her the best ways I could. She ate off of fine china and silver, much to my mother-in-law’s dismay, she opened her own presents, she wore necklaces, not collars, and understood completely that dog-dogs walked around on leashes with their mommies while poodles got carried. She got along great with my cats and gave them kisses whenever they got close.

In 2006, my darling got sick … really sick with Cushing’s disease. Her beautiful white fur fell out, after we had so diligently worked with the vet in her early days to grow her fur back. She lost her girlish figure and started to look like a pot bellied pig. Her energy level was nonexistent. Her heart became so enlarged that it was too risky to do any treatment on her Cushing’s.

So I prepared for the inevitable. I took her everywhere I went … I loved on her every second I could. We went bye bye and played with her ball until she just got too weak. I prayed, I prayed so hard to our Father in Heaven to please spare me that awful decision when she needed me to help her go. I reasoned with God, “She is such a good girl, she is my best friend, and I have been a good momma. I took care of her and loved her the way you said we should love each other. Please, just let her lay down to go to sleep and just not wake up. Please dear God, please.”

So on that day in September, while I was driving my husband’s new car around the block, and she napped, she went to the Rainbow Bridge. I was gone no more than 15 minutes … I was shocked and broken hearted. But I knew God heard my prayer and He gave me what I asked for, for both of us.

I know when my time comes, by best friend, my beloved little girl Pennee Rachel Lane will be waiting for me.

Rest in peace my precious little one. You were the best friend anyone ever had. Momma loves you and will see you again one day soon.

We managed to snag one of the volunteers to take him out of the cage. I could tell that he was scared to death, I think he felt that this was the end of the road for him. We walked him through the cat’s quarters to see if he got along with them, since we had 4 cats at home. He walked through being aware of the cats but not paying any attention to them, his walk was one of fear and he never took his eyes off of the areas around him. After some consideration, we adopted Bosco and brought him home. When we arrived, he continued his fearful activity, he would not walk into the house until he looked every which way, even at the ceilings, I tried to make him comfortable but the dog was still stricken with fear.

Later that evening after dinner, as we settled down to watch some television, I grabbed a brush that we had from our little dog that had recently passed away, Bosco must have felt some comfort with us even though he didn’t show it, I gently motioned to him to come up on the couch with me, which he did very carefully and laid down. I took the brush and started running it down his neck and back. He finally laid his head down and seemed at ease for the first time. I must have been tired from the long day and dosed off. Right about then the brush fell to the floor, I woke up to see Bosco stepping down off the couch as carefully as he could as if not to wake me. He picked the brush up in his mouth, turned and tenderly laid it on my stomach. I was totally amazed and knew right then, that he was highly intelligent and very special.

We later found out through the animal shelter, that this poor dog had been mistreated by 3 different owners and was brought back to the shelter twice after being adopted. He had been at the animal shelter for the maximum time and he was only a couple of days away from being euthanized.

Bosco was afraid of many things, and I believe his former owners did things to strike fear into the poor animal. Balloons, ceiling fans, certain furniture and parts of the yard would make him crouch down as if he was going to be hit or something was going to fall on him. We decided to get him a companion to help him get over his fears, so we adopted Hershey, a half Wolf, half German Shepard puppy. Bosco and Hershey grew up together and shared a very happy life. Hershey was very laid back, which did wonders for Bosco, as he soon became a normal and loving dog.

Bosco was with us for 12 years when he developed problems with his hind legs. He eventually could not stand up on his own without great pain, we decided it was time for him to be free of the pain and suffering and sent him into God’s hands. Hershey eventually developed the same problem a couple years later, and we were once again faced with a decision no loving pet owner wants to have, but they are now both at Rainbow Bridge where they will be together eternally to play and live the life they deserve, until we can be with them again.

Pets, or better said, long time companions, can tug harder on our heart strings than people.  Our little furry ones never got mad at us, never held a grudge, never quit talking to us, and in fact did just the opposite.  They loved us unconditionally.  How did they always know so intuitively just when we were sad and just when we needed to be loved?  They were always there for us.  Always.

People go to group grief counseling all the time to help get over the pain of loosing a two legged loved one, and it should be no different for you just because your loved one  had four legs.  There are literally hundreds of support groups for pet loss and grief counseling.  If your family or so called friends don’t understand what you’re going through, then go find a good support group that works for you.  So many people want to share their loved ones picture and story.  They not only understand what you’re going through, but they need to share the life and loss of their loved one just a much a you need to share with them.  It is the beginning to help you heal.  You will never forget, but as they say “time heals all wounds”.  The pain will lesson as time goes buy, but in the mean time, you can be in the company of others who understand what you’re feeling and just how special your little buddy was to you.

I really recommend volunteering at your local shelter.  Take someone else from your support group with you.  Remember, you can help them too, just as they are helping you.  Helping others also helps your heart heal. There are so many furry lovable little ones, young and old, that need our help.  This is a great way to help you heal your heart, and to help those that can’t help themselves.  See my article on “Volunteer to Help “You” & Our Furry Friends” to see if there is an opportunity that is right for you.  There are so many ways for you to help out in the shelters, or maybe you can be an in home  “foster parent”.  Check it out.  You don’t know how good it can make you feel.  Feeling better will take time, but  give it time and try not to be so hard on yourself .  It will come.

I also believe you should find your own way to say goodbye.  Find whatever memorial service is right for you. Mark your pet’s passing with some sort of ceremony.  It is important for you to accept that your pet is gone.  A memorial service with a burial in your yard marked with a grave stone, or something as simple as a commemorative plate or a picture in your pet’s memory will help the healing begin.

Remember, there is no wrong or right way.  Let your grieving process be your own.  No one can tell you what the right way to do it is, or what is the right amount of time should be.  No one will ever quite know what a special bond you had.  In a way, isn’t that wonderful?  You had that one and only special love, a love that was so strong that only the two of you could share.♥

Before we jump into another commitment, we need to consider it carefully as it may last for 15 years or more.  Where are we going to be in 15 years?  In the same home,  renting, retired, traveling?  These are things that need to be thought about before adopting.  Many of the animals who are now in shelters and on death row are there because some of these questions were not thought about.  I know that sounds harsh, but it’s true.  You want to be hero to one of the homeless, not a hazard because you didn’t plan ahead.

Some things that should be considered before adopting:

• Why Do You Want A Pet?  Do you want a full time companion or is it just a whim because you are “there and they are so cute”?  Remember, pets take a lot of time and money so be sure you are ready to take on the responsibility.

• Can You Afford A Pet?  The cost of having a pet can add up quickly.  They require licenses, spaying and neutering, veterinary care, food, kitty litter, toys and other expenses that can add up.

• Can You Have A Pet Where You Live?  If you don’t own your home, this can become a problem.  Many rental communities, even condo associations have pet restrictions.  You don’t want to bring in a new companion only to find that you can’t keep them and have to return them.  This is not only hard on you, but think of the poor animal that doesn’t understand why he was rejected.

• Is This The Right Time To Adopt?  You may think you want a pet but is your family really ready?  If you have young children, getting ready to move, or if you travel a lot, you may need to reconsider and wait until the timing is better for both you and your new friend.

• Are You In A Suitable Living Arrangement?  Think about what kind of animal you want.  If you’re in a small place, a big dog might not be right for you.  Even a small dog that does not have a yard can have some problems. Be sure that you match your living space with the right kind of animal so both he and you can be happy.

Remember, your getting a new friend for life.  All of the above questions should be considered before you adopt.  Just take a look at all of those sad faces that are behind bars because others didn’t think adoption though, and maybe this will help you better choose which little sole is best for you.  You are making a commitment for the rest of their lives.  Be sure you can live up to it so you can both be happy for a long time.♥