ENCORE | It's So Hard to Say Goodbye

It never ceases to amaze me when, after the death of a pet, someone says something insensitive like “It was only a dog” or “It’s just a cat”.

Actually, in some small way, I feel sorry for these people. For, by choice or misfortune, they have obviously never experienced the amazing bond that can only be felt by the companionship of a pet.

The unconditional love a pet offers is truly a special gift. You can share your most private affairs or tearful sorrows and be assured they’ll take your secrets to the grave.

When you are sick, your pet stays with you, when your pet isn’t feeling well, you help them out. They are furry kids who never outgrow the need for you to care for them and in return they offer their loyalty and endless love. It’s a pretty sweet deal. Truly unparalleled.

So it only stands to reason that having built this incredible relationship over the years with these devoted, gentle beings, it’s going to hurt like hell when that relationship is suddenly gone.

Sometimes the silence, left after a pet has passed away, can be deafening.

Each time I have lost a pet, it feels like a little piece of my heart goes with them. But...in time, each piece is replaced with a little angel, who remains with me and in my heart forever.

This post was written by Ken Leavoy and first appeared in Scribbles May, 2015.