12 Comments

What an interesting story. I do hope Mr. Grey will be okay. A pet's death is awful. They are our friends, soulmates, companions, and generally give generously of their love. I'm a dog person and in my life have lost quite a few soulmates, but the love is the same whatever form the companion takes. Take care...

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Thank you for your kind words. We certainly love our furry friends. I wanted to include some facts regarding homeless animals so that people are more aware. I can tell the remaining kitty is lonely; he rubs up on my legs all the while I'm tending to the food and water (which he didn't do before.) He misses his friend. I'm going to try to find him an indoor home so he's not alone 24/7 and can finally live in some comfort.

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My furry friends' deaths devastated me. I'm still not over the last. She passed away the day before my birthday in 2018. I want another companion so bad but not sure I can go through the loss again and keep my own sanity. You are an angel.

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Thanks for the kind words.

When I had to euthanize my first pet in 2000, I swore I'd never have another pet (unless it came with a guarantee that it would outlive me.) It took 18 years, but when a small, outdoor cat came to my backdoor, hungry and cold, I knew it was time. Unfortunately, she had feline leukemia and I only had her 15 months. I took it hard (again) and then a fellow animal lover told me something that helped a lot: "It's not about us, it's about them." I became a caretaker for the outdoor cats and rescued my current house panther. I volunteer for a local spay/neuter clinic and try to educate others about homeless animals.

Hopefully, you'll be ready again at some point. It does take time to grieve.

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"It's not about us, it's about them" is heartwarming. My birthday is coming soon and after reading your response I feel ready to move forward with a new furry friend. Thank you for such a great response.

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I’m a cat person. My husband not so much so we have none. What you have done is wonderful. You cared for them admirably.

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Thank you; there's so much suffering and I do what I can.

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Absolutely! I've had cats for fifty years - Sami, Cookie, Casey, Casie, and Missy. Losing each one was exactly like losing a family member - particularly Missy who was with us for about 15 years.

Right now Bailey and Bella - two rescue cats share their lives with me. Bella is somewhere between a feral and a community cat - I do get to pet her every now and then - but hold her never. Bailey is my love bug. They add so much to my life.

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They are wonderful companions and friends!

I only get to spend a few minutes each day with my outdoor kitty. But, I think he can be socialized and am strategizing how to make this his last winter outside. I hope I'm successful.

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Me too.

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Beautiful story Ms. Writer. I have loved a furry animal very much so I understand your heartbreak.

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Thank you, Alice. Our connections with them do run deep.

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