Piet, we don't really know each other yet. But, you're a pipe smoker. And, you found such a good friend in your four-legged companion. Those two things tell me you must be a very, very good egg!!
My wife and I raise Yorkshire Terriers and Poodles. We become very, very attached to them. As a matter of fact, they are more like our children than they are our pets. They even give us more attention and love than our human children do... sad... but, true!
Over the years, we have lost this one and that one. Each one had and still retains a special place in our hearts. We even tend to tear up when we get to talking or thinking about this one or that one.
I've said all this to say that I understand your pain, my new friend. My heart breaks for you. And, I offer you my deepest and sincerest condolences. Those who are not so close to their animals cannot understand that the loss of a good friend pet can sometimes be harder than the loss of a human friend!
Blessings to you! And, may your current grief soon be tempered with the good memories of the precious times spent with your companion!!
Robert
BTW, being a fellow dog hugger (and, not the least bit ashamed of it), I thought you might like to know about a place called "Rainbow Bridge." Some will say it is a mythical place... created out of the hearts and minds of those who cannot let go. But, I like to believe that it is a real place... a real place where we will some day be reunited with our beloved pets!!! Here's a poem about Rainbow Bridge:
Rainbow Bridge
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...
