When Your Beloved Pet Dies

Recently my 15 year old Moodle, called Mr Pax became ill and we had to make the decision to take him to the vet to end his life. Now I am one who has faced a lot of loss in my life and this loss was no different. The intensity of the emotions and the grief were as relevant and as intense as for my dear family and friends who have passed away.

After 15 years of having him with me basically at all times unless I was travelling, losing him was very difficult and still is today. As I come to the top of the stairs I look for him, as I come home from the supermarket, he is the first one I look for - how I loved those excited and loving greetings!- and as I go to bed I look for him to come into his bed as well.

Many of my friends knew Pax well so we decided to hold a wake in his honour. This was such a therapeutic thing to do. I made a slide show of his life, we selected some poems and readings, and we gathered with lovely food and drinks to honour the love of a dog. Even those people who are not “dog people” couldn’t fail to be moved!

The stories and memories from everyone bought much joy and laughter and it was a soothing balm for my daughter and I.

I strongly encourage you to do this when the time comes for your dear pet- we know they have shorter lives than ours, and we try to prepare for the inevitable but as a dog and animal lover I cannot stress the value of this remembrance ceremony. Gather your family and friends and I can create a beautiful ceremony to honour your pet - you will feel joy, sadness and a warmth knowing your pet was loved and cherished and will be remembered by those that are close to you!

“Waiting at the Door”

I was just a pup when we first met

I loved you from the start

You picked me up and took me home

And placed me in your heart.

Good times we had together

We shared all life could throw

But the years passed all too quickly

My time has come to go.

I know how much you miss me

I know your heart is sore

I see the tears that fall when

Im not waiting at the door.

You always did your best for me

Your love was plain to see

For even though it broke your heart

You set my spirit free.

So please be brave without me

One day we’ll meet once more.

For when you’re called to heaven

I’ll be waiting at the door.

(Author Unknown. AFCC.)