(Note to the Reader: Don’t worry. I promise this will end on a happy note.) Bloggers share the sad stuff. It’s a way of processing hard news. Of releasing tension. But it’s also our responsibility. After all, we’re part of a community. And as a part of that community, I respond to the sad stuff …
Pet Loss
The Blessing of Caring for a Sick Dog
When you’re worried, washing soiled bedding, and driving to the vet in the middle of the night, it’s hard to imagine there is anything good about having a sick dog. But here’s the blessing I’ve found. Gift of Attention Honey is with me most of the time. We take long walks every day. She sits …
Don’t Wait for One Perfect Day With Your Dog
If you knew your dog was coming to the end of her life, wouldn’t you want to have one perfect day with her? Why wait? Good Advice for Grieving a Pet I’ve borrowed or renewed at the library Jon Katz’s book, Going Home: Finding Peace When Pets Die four times. How could I read a …
We’re All the Same When We Love a Dog
When I was in high school, we didn’t have the World Wide Web to send shocking, funny, or touching video to the four corners of the earth. But some things became viral anyway. The video below, from 1981, is one of them. I did not see the original show on which Jimmy Stewart read his …
How to Create Joy After the Loss of Your Pet
Grieving rituals are the first step in turning wrenching loss into acceptance, and ultimately, joyful memories. Meaningful rituals range from the sublime to the ridiculous. And are as varied as the relationships we have with the animals we’re blessed to share our lives with. The Memorial Garden Our friends at 24 Paws of Love shared …
Strengthening the Bond With Your Animal – Pet Hospice
Facing the end of our pets’ lives brings complicated feelings. Grief, yes. Sorrow, yes. But also regret, uncertainty, and sometimes, even relief. If we saw end of life care for our animals as a way to keep our bond strong, would we both benefit emotionally from the experience? Specialized help – pet hospice Last week …
What an Artist Can Teach Us About Saying Goodbye to a Loved Pet
This post is dedicated to my recently-passed friend and neighbor, Sophie the Labrador. Sophie was lovely old gal who took her responsibilities of watching over the neighborhood seriously. I miss her. One of my favorite artists is Andy Goldsworthy. Goldsworthy makes art from natural objects. And I think the artist has a lot to teach …