"Time to let go"

Ah, the joy of bringing a new puppy into the home, of fondly caressing the dog, anticipating his every need as only a mother can do, investing time and love in what is surely the apple of your eye. Your plans for him have been carefully thought out, from the house training, nutrition, through to his winning performances in the ring. Yes, this is what responsible dog ownership is all about - you have years to share the thrill of eventing, and when the eventing is done, you have more time spent being comfortable with each other through the autumn years. All this however, must one day come to an end. No one told you how much it would hurt, no one said the ultimate expression of your love for his life would be to take it away. Nothing could prepare you for the pain. There are no words to be said that will "make it right", nothing can bring him back. Bereavement is a universal experience - not a pleasant one, but one that must be experienced, not denied. The pain of loss will eventually heal - express your grief, seek support from your friends, and share those wonderful memories with them. Feel your pain, for there are others that also mourn with you on the loss of someone special. Celebrate your life has been touched by a faithful companion who asked only for your company and love, and gave unbargained love in return. When the time comes and the quality is no longer there, rejoice in the love shared and be at ease with your decision. His suffering will cease, but a place in your heart shall welcome him again and again.

Ms. Sheryl Pretty

Poems

If it should be....

If it should be that I grow frail and weak

And pain should keep me from my sleep

Then you must do what must be done  

For this last battle can't be won

You will be sad, I understand            

Don't let grief then stay your hand             

For this day more than all the rest      

Your love and friendship stand the test         

We've had so many happy years       

What is to come can hold no fears      

You'd not want me to suffer....so       

When the time comes, please let me go       

Take me where my needs they'll tend        

But stay with me until the end            

And hold me firm and speak to me             

Until my eyes no longer see                       

I know in time that you will see                

It is a kindness you do for me                    

Although my tail its last has waved            

From pain and suffering I've been saved   

Do not grieve that it should be you            

Who must decide this thing to do     

We've been so close -we two- these years

Don't let your heart hold any fears

  Anniversary Thanks

Thank you so much for having me

We have been so happy, haven't we?

God has promised that we will be

Together again eventually.

One more lick and he closed his eyes

We both had said our last goodbyes

I can't describe the tears that fell

The day he died, I died as well.

Twelve months now I've been alone

I''ve lost the best friend that I've known

I sit and stare out into space

And seem to see his lovely face

I turn and look into the hall

Where he used to run when he was small

All around the memories stay

They will until I'm called away

Yes, I bought a puppy home one day,

It seems like only yesterday

But it was 14 years today

Since he first came with me to stay.

• Pet Loss Web  Site

        http://www.petloss.com/

Cremation has long been surrounded by an air of mystery. Yet, there is nothing mysterious about cremation. We believe that the subject of cremation of a pet can and should be fully explained.

The following has been prepared for your information on cremation to serve as a guide when the need should arise.

These days cremation is endorsed and has the support and approval of an ever increasing number of people of all faiths and in all walks of life.

Cremation is simply a hastening of natural processes by a clean, sanitary and entirely modern method, which is quickly effected by a clean, intense heat that returns the body to its original elements.

After cremation the calcified bone fragments of the remains are carefully gathered and sealed in a container.

Cremated remains are returned to the owner or clinic within 7 days after the cremation unless other arrangements are made in advance.

Frequently asked Questions

• How many pets are cremated at a time?

Each pet is cremated individually.

• How long does cremation take?

About an hour. (Large dogs too)

• How much do the cremations remain of a pet weigh?

From a few grams, depending on size.

• What are the cremated remains?

Only calcified bone fragments and some body ash remain after cremation.

• Does one always get the cremated remains of their own pet?

Yes.

• Is there a law preventing the burial or scattering of cremated pet remains?

No.

• Can I view my pets cremation?

Yes, By arrangement.

• What type of cremator is used?

Ask your service company.

(ensure your service company is E.P.A. approved)

The Rainbow Bridge Story

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 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 animals who had been ill or old are restored to health and vigour; 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 carry 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................

Autumn

What do we do when our loving pets face the last leg of the race?
We do all we can to help them finish well, of course.
We take time to read the unspoken needs of the friends we've come to
know so well.
We give the simple reassurances of a loving touch, when the old boy
seems confused for no reason.

We groom them faithfully, but more gently, as age brings muscle
wasting,
and the arthritic bones aren't so well padded.
We learn to slow for their sake, as they enjoy the scent of the wind,
or
track a visitor's trail across the yard.
We expect to be inconvenienced, and aren't angry when it happens.
We watch for pain and treat it, watch for changes in vision and hearing
and do what we can to help preserve those precious senses for as long
as
possible.

We take care of their teeth, and make sure their food is a manageable
texture for them.
We remind them of the need for a potty walk, when they seem to forget.
We remember the little rewards.
We scratch the greying ears and tummy, and go for car rides together.

When the pet we love has an unexplained need for comfort, we give it
freely.
When infirmities bring a sense of vulnerability, we become our old
guardian's protector.
We watch their deepest slumbers, when dreams take them running across
long forgotten fields, and we remember those fields too.

When they cannot stand alone, we lift them.
When their steps are uncertain, we steady them.

And if their health fails, it falls to us to make the choice that will
gently
put them to rest.
But until that is absolutely necessary, we pause to let the autumn sun
warm our old friend's bones.
And we realize, autumn is not a bad time of year at all.

Old age is not a disease or a reason to give up.
It is a stage of life that brings its own changes.
Autumn can be a beautiful time of harvest.
And sometimes, the harvest is love.
 

Author unknown