Puddy

[Medusa]

I can't say any more right now. I'm too sick w/grief.

ETA: I brought Puddy home when she was 5 weeks old. She had a metal splint on her leg because she was born w/her left hind leg sticking out like a wing. Her mother rejected her, so her human family bottle fed her. Their vet suggested amputating Puddy's leg but they didn't want to do that so he put the metal splint on it, causing her to drag her leg behind her as she walked. After a brief time, the family realized that it was going to be too much work to take care of her and decided to have her put to sleep. My son's girlfriend at that time heard about her and said "Please don't do anything yet! My boyfriend's mom rescues cats. Let me talk to her about this". I took one look at her, picked her up and said "What about it? Wanna come home w/me?" and she hissed at me. That clinched the deal. I love cats w/"catitude" and she was loaded w/it. I wanted to bring her little orange brother home, too, because he was busily chewing on my shoe while I was holding her but I knew that I was going to be in enough trouble w/my husband just for adding one more cat to the household, bringing the total to 4 at that time.

On the way home I tried to think of what I could do to soften up my husband and then it came to me: as soon as I get out of the car, I should hold her up in front of my face, leg in the splint hanging down, both of us looking pathetic. It worked. My husband took one look and said "Oh, poor little sweety". I knew we had him. He said "What should we name her?" and I said "I already named her Puddy, as in 'I tot I taw a Puddy Tat'. "Perfect!" he said.

I had to keep her isolated until her tests revealed that it was ok to be around the rest of the Fur Posse and so she had the run of the downstairs to herself. When she was finally allowed to be around the others, I knew that sweet Pidgie would be the one to introduce her to first. Rambunctious little Puddy ran over to Pidge and head butted her, hissing and spitting and carrying on. Calm as can be, Pidge put her gigantic paw on Puddy's head and held it to the floor, Puddy hissing and paws flying until she tuckered out. Pidge never took her paw off Puddy's head until she calmed down. They were good buddies after that. Peeka and Boo were easy. Puddy had them buffaloed from the getgo. Coco Puff was Puddy's horsefly, always bothering her. Yodie wisely kept her distance. Specs was scared to death of her. But Creamsicle...little Cgirl loved Puddy and Puddy loved her, too. She's the only one that she would snuggle up to and allow to groom her. I know that Cgirl will miss her buddy Puddy.

Shortly thereafter my vet, Dr. LeBeau, said "Let's take a look at this leg". He removed the cast and saw that the metal splint had rubbed an ulcer clear down to the bone. He treated it and said "I don't think this is going to work. You should just leave the splint off. She'll walk w/a limp. Can you live w/that?" I said "If she can live w/it, I can live w/it. You don't have to be perfect to live in my house". My husband said that she walked like John Wayne and he affectionately called her Jane Wayne after that. From then on Puddy led a pampered life w/the Fur Posse, in her later years developing chronic renal failure, going on subcutaneous fluids off and on until her passing today.

She was the toughest cat I've ever known and my current vet, Dr. Lee, said he's never had a patient like her, who came back even stronger after every health challenge, until today, that is. Some people misunderstood Puddy and called her "mean", I guess because she hissed a lot. HA! That was her way of letting us all know who was boss. I'll miss my Shnorkey so much. My life will never be the same. This house now has a huge void. I wish I could hold her tiny little 5 lb. furry body up to my face just one more time, look into those fiery eyes and tell her "You're my most favoritest kitty kat in the whole wide world ever ever ever". And hear her hiss and I would laugh. Not today. Not ever again. Take a nice long rest my little Calico Queen. Then look for Peeka there; she's waiting for you. And please wait for me when my time comes. Until then, I'll miss you and I'm still counting on you to "watch the house for Mommy" from the spirit world. I know you can do it. You're Puddy.

[Queen of Poop]

I am so very, very sorry. Hugs for you.

[jazzcat]

Oh Mary!!:(:(:(

I am so sorry. I know you are absolutely heartbroken. Please know you did everything you could and your sweet Puddy knows it.

Rest in Peace dear Puddy.

[Taz_Zoee]

I am so sorry. Major LES here right now.

RIP Puddy :(

[Moesha]

I am in complete shock. I've been gone all day and was actually thinking about getting home and reading about how Puddy was doing on my drive through town. I just read the other thread and the update from this morning. Please take comfort in knowing that you did absolutely everything you could for that sweetheart. We're all here for you when you feel like you can share what happened with us.

[momtomany]

Mary I am praying for you right this minute. There are not words that will help and sorry seems contrite, but my heart truly is aching for you right now. May God grant you peace as he has granted Puddy.

[pomtzu]

Rest in peace dear Puddy, and may God bring peace to your wonderful Mom.

[jennielynn1970]

Oh god, Mary, I am so sorry to be reading this. I wish I knew what to say to make you feel better.

Sweet Puddy girl, rest now, and watch over your meowmy, know that she is in terrible shock and grief. Know that you are now well, and whole, and that all of us on Pet Talk will be thinking of you and your family tonight and wishing you all peace.

Godspeed to the Bridge, dear sweet girl.

((((HUGS))))) to you Mary.

[LionHart]

My heart goes out to you. No matter how many times it's always hard. Know that you did your best for Puddy and Puddy loves you for that.

[shais_mom]

Rest In Peace and Godspeed Puddy.
lots of love and hugs to Mary.

[Grace]

I'm so very sorry.

Puddy is now at peace - at The Bridge.

{{{{Mary}}}}

[carole]

Tribute to Puddy

Puddy you were a very brave little girl, you fought hard to the end, and as much as you loved Mary, you just knew it was time to go, mary is lost without you and i hope that you can let her know that you are happy and having fun at the Rainbow Bridge. RIP little trooper,loved by many here on PT you will be sadly missed.:love::love:

Heaps of HUGS Mary.:love::love:

[sasvermont]

Mary, it was her time.

((((((((((((((((((Mary)))))))))))))))

[ChrisH]

Oh, Mary, I am so sorry. {{{hugs}}}

[RockyRoad]

So sorry to hear about sweet Puddy. :(
Rest in peace, sweetheart. :love: {{{hugs}}}

[jenluckenbach]

{{{{HUGS}}}}


RIP Puddy. You were loved and you will never be forgotten.

[RedHedd]

I'm so sorry for your loss RIP sweet Puddy, play hard at the Bridge
:(

[Craftlady]

I'm so sorry to read of Puddy's passing to the bridge. May it be a comfort that she isnt in any more pain and is playing like a little kitten with the others at the bridge.

[Catty1]

OH MARY - I logged on and got this news through a PM. :(

My God, if love and devotion could have cured her, she would have another 20 years. I am just stunned by this...that little fighter.

Take some heart in that in the last couple of days, she DID feel better, was eating, and I bet she had a much clearer mind than she had had in a long time...knew who she was and who Mommy was.

Darling Puddy...lovely, lovely lady.

Mary, what do you need right now? I'll do anything I can.


{{{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}}}

[Bengalz]

I'm so sorry about dear little Puddy:( She fought so hard but it was not to be. Rest in peace baby girl and know that your momma is heart broken.

Hugs to you Mary - you fought the fight as best you could:love:

[Catty1]

A photo tribute...I hope this is ok with you, Mary. She was so beautiful, and there was a reason it was always PUDDY and the Fur Posse, and not just the Fur Posse.

Mary's titles are used below.:love:

"I will kill you."
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c11/Candace_1956/Puddy/Iwillkillyou2Mar0308.jpg

Kitty Pile
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c11/Candace_1956/Puddy/KittypilePuddyMar1008.jpg

Puddy grooming Cgirl
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c11/Candace_1956/Puddy/PuddygroomingCgirlJan3008.jpg

Puddy
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c11/Candace_1956/Puddy/PuddyFeb2007.jpg

Rotten Lazy Worthless Cats (or words to that effect!;) )
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c11/Candace_1956/Puddy/WorthlesscatsJan3008.jpg

Queen Puddy
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c11/Candace_1956/Puddy/QueenPuddyMar3007.jpg

Queen Puddy
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c11/Candace_1956/Puddy/YouwantapieceomeMar3007.jpg


Your Meowmie loves you so much, baby girl...please send a whisper into her ear and let her know you are all right.:love:

[cristy]

I missed so much of your former thread, but I caught enough to be right there with prayers. Now, your sweetheart is an angel and can listen and help others in need...and just think, someday you will see her again! HUGS to you and we will pray that you find peace and rest tonight.

[Medusa]

A photo tribute...I hope this is ok with you, Mary. She was so beautiful, and there was a reason it was always PUDDY and the Fur Posse, and not just the Fur Posse.

Mary's titles are used below.:love:

"I will kill you."
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c11/Candace_1956/Puddy/Iwillkillyou2Mar0308.jpg

Kitty Pile
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c11/Candace_1956/Puddy/KittypilePuddyMar1008.jpg

Puddy grooming Cgirl
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c11/Candace_1956/Puddy/PuddygroomingCgirlJan3008.jpg

Puddy
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c11/Candace_1956/Puddy/PuddyFeb2007.jpg

Rotten Lazy Worthless Cats (or words to that effect!;) )
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c11/Candace_1956/Puddy/WorthlesscatsJan3008.jpg

Queen Puddy
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c11/Candace_1956/Puddy/QueenPuddyMar3007.jpg

Queen Puddy
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c11/Candace_1956/Puddy/YouwantapieceomeMar3007.jpg


Your Meowmie loves you so much, baby girl...please send a whisper into her ear and let her know you are all right.:love:

Candace, you amaze me. I can't believe you found all these pix. I was going to start on her tribute and thought "Oh I've got to go through all my pix". But now I don't have to. Thank you so much, my good friend. You asked what I need: I need my Puddy girl and I know you can't do anything about that. Whatever else I need, I get right here at PT from my good friends such as you and those who have taken the time to post some comforting words. My son and my ex-husband both called and talked to me for quite some time and that helped ease the pain. They reminisced w/me about Puddy and made me laugh. I needed that. And my son said "Puddy went out on her own terms, just like she lived her life, Mom". He's right. Thank you again, Candace, and all my wonderful, thoughtful PT friends.

[Scooter's Mom]

Oh, Mary. I am so sorry. You did so much for sweet Puddy. I am sitting here crying. Please know that Puddy loves you and one day you will hear the tap-tap-tap again; even if only in your dreams.

((Hugs)) to you.

[cassiesmom]

Oh, Mary. I saw this thread and my heart just dropped. HUGS

[carole]

Mary what a stunning girl Puddy was,it is good to hear you talk about her and good that you are trying to remember all the good times with her,keep those fond memories close to your heart and share with us all,i hope it will in time help you come to terms with your sad loss, lots of love and hugs from across the ocean.:love::love:

[Karen]

Oh, Puddy, sweet girl
Queen Calico of all
Ruler of Hearts
And of all she surveyed
Puddy, sweet as puddy
Strong as spice and of spirit
You're an angel now
With surely multicolored wings
To match your calico beauty

Watch of your momma,
Send purrs into her heart
Let her know you are well now
Your struggle is over
Your battle is done
Your time as an angel watching over her
Has just now begun.

[Medusa]

Oh, Puddy, sweet girl
Queen Calico of all
Ruler of Hearts
And of all she surveyed
Puddy, sweet as puddy
Strong as spice and of spirit
You're an angel now
With surely multicolored wings
To match your calico beauty

Watch of your momma,
Send purrs into her heart
Let her know you are well now
Your struggle is over
Your battle is done
Your time as an angel watching over her
Has just now begun.

Thank you so much for this, Karen. It's beautiful.

[Medusa]

You can read my tribute to Puddy as an ETA in my first post of this thread. Thank you all again, my dear friends, for your wonderful words of encouragement, support and sympathy. I treasure all of you.

[zippy-kat]

{{{{Many hugs}}}}

[Emeraldgreen]

Mary, I am so very sorry that you have lost your girl. As Candace said, if love could have cured her, she would have lived decades and even longer! I was so inspired by all that you were willing to do to try and make Puddy's life a better one. Everything from mini ladders to fountains to fudgesicles to iron skillets! *LES while smiling* There is no way on God's green earth she didn't know how very much you adored her, it was evident in every goodnight noggin noogie and each time you got up to to turn the tub faucet on in the middle of the night. It was pure love.
I am thankful that your last few days with her were more reminiscent of the old days and that you two could be together in a more familiar way. I think God made her well for you, even if it was for just a brief moment, so you could carry that with you. She is safe now and feels no pain. She probably has a mountain of fudgesicles to lick and enjoy but they'll have to wait until Peeka finishes showing her around.
I'm SURE that she will watch over you and the fur posse and your house. *smile* Once a guard cat, always a guard cat!
My heart breaks for you Mary. I pray that you will find peace as the hours pass and that healing finds you. I know you said that the night has never been your friend but please know that you are not alone tonight. We are all with you in thought and in spirit and in prayer. :love:

Play and run and be free beautiful Puddy Tat. Please visit your meowmie in her dreams to let her know you are safe.

http://i225.photobucket.com/albums/dd102/emeraldcreek/rainbowbridgePuddy-1.jpg

[slick]

My dear Mary:
I've been out most of the day and when I returned home about 5pm and turned on PT, my eyes immediately focussed on Cat Memorial. When I saw "Puddy" LES began to take over. I didn't know how to respond then. All I could think about was how you must be hurting and how I wish I had something intelligent and wise to say to you....something that would bring you comfort.

However, the only thing that can bring you comfort now is if Mz Puddy were once again in your arms...hissing away. Having said that, you can take comfort in knowing that it will happen someday again, just not here on earth.

I just don't know if I could have been as strong as you and put up so much heartache, then again we all deal with the cards that are dealt to us. You amaze me Mary!!! I have learned from you Mary!!!! You have taught me patience and through your postings you show us all what compassion is all about. Mz Puddy had a wonderful life because of you and no doubt she is waiting to be reunited with you again.

RIP sweet Puddy!! Do you have any idea how much you are loved and prayed for by so many people around the world??? Don't worry about Meowmie. We will take care of her.

Sweet Cgirl: Your buddy is gone, but not far away. Look into the clouds little one and you will see her there, watching over you.

Big {{{hugs}}} to you Mary. Our hearts break with yours....we cry tears along with you.

Slick :love::love:

[Kirsten]

Mary, tears ran down my face when I read your story about Puddy's passing, and your beautiful tribute to her!

She was such a fighter and knew how much you loved her, and she would never have gone if she had any other choice! She fought as long as she could, but in the end, her little body was just worn out, and tired. But I'm sure she knew that you did everything you could to make her last days on earth as comfortable as possible. And all the time, she was surrounded by love! :love:

She'll be your little kitty angel from now on. :love:

R.I.P. sweet Puddy, and take good care of your meowmie!

Kirsten

[Killearn Kitties]

I'm so sorry to hear that you have lost your Puddy. She was a beautiful girl and such a character that she will leave a very big void behind her.

Rest in peace, pretty girl.

[Barbara]

Sending all my sympathies to you. It became difficult for me to read your thread in Cat Health because I had the feeling that Puddy was ready to leave.
She will hiss happily at Rainbow Bridge and you are left without her:(

[Maya & Inka's mommy]

I'm so sorry......!! Puddy was such a gorgeous calico...

Have fun at the Bridge sweet Puddy, you will love it there! And..., NO more pain, ever again sweety :love:!!

Hugs to you dear Mary:love:
http://users.telenet.be/bernardgabriels/images/smilies%20973%20Huge_hug.gif

[catlover4ever]

Mary I'm so very sorry to hear about Puddy. She was a beautiful girl who found herself a very beautiful person to take care of her every need.

RIP Sweet Puddy

[GILL]

I am so sorry and I am sory for taking so long to post. It seems that every time I started I would remember ET. When you loose a baby it is never easy, but we must be strong for there are so many more that need our help.
Again I am so sorry.

[lvpets2002]

:( So Saddened to Read of your Loss Mary.. RIP Puddy & may the RB Angels be lifting you up to be with the other Beloved PT Angels.. :love:

[AbbyMom]

I'm so sad to read about Puddy. I'm so sorry for your loss.


Play hard at the bridge, Puddy. You were well loved.

[Randi]

Mary, I'm so sorry you have lost Puddy. :( What a sweet and brave girl she was. You did so much for her and she knew that. I hope it will be a comfort to you that she's not suffering now, but playing happily and hissing at the RB.

Rest in Peace, sweet Puddy!

(((hugs)))

[greendoor678]

I've been reading your daily updates, but felt I couldn't give any good advice anymore.
I'm so sorry for your loss and I'm sure you know that your Puddy is feeling so much better now. You did absolutely everything possible for Puddy!

[mruffruff]

I am so sorry, Mary.

Puddy was a beautiful girl. She obviously loved you very much and tried to stay as long as she could. Her spirit will be with you always.

((Hugs))

[kb2yjx]

Puddy was so lucky right from the start to have you for her Mom! You gave her LOVE and LOVE, and even more LOVE!!! You could not have done more for her. Sleep softly, dear Puddy...

[gini]

Dear Mary, I posted on your other thread, but I wanted to come here and again tell you how sorry I am to hear of Puddy's passing. I just can't help but feel that she is very very close to you - and always will be.

[Cataholic]

Dear Mary,
So very sorry to know of Puddy's passing. She has left a huge void. May the passing of time bring loving memories to help fill it up. RIP, Sweet Puddy.

[smokey the elder]

I'm so sorry about Puddy. She will tell all the other Bridge Kitties who's boss now, and hiss them into shape.

[Anikaca77]

Mary,

I'm so so sorry. My prays for your healing. Puddy take care, we will miss you,
Melissa

[jennielynn1970]

Since Mary was the one who showed this site to me, I thought it would be appropriate to light a candle for her and for Puddy.

Maybe we can all do that and make the world a bit brighter for Mary and Puddy.

Here's my candle. (http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/message.cfm?l=eng&cid=6836584)

[Freedom]

Sweet Puddy, you knew SO much love while you were here with Mary.

Hugs to you, Mary.

[Medusa]

Since Mary was the one who showed this site to me, I thought it would be appropriate to light a candle for her and for Puddy.

Maybe we can all do that and make the world a bit brighter for Mary and Puddy.

Here's my candle. (http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/message.cfm?l=eng&cid=6836584)

Thank you, Jenn. And thank you for reminding me of this site. I lit a candle at Puddy's grave yesterday but the rain put it out. It stayed lit for quite some time, though. It wasn't until it began to really storm that the candle flame went out. So Puddy was already hissing. :)

[mamaducky]

Sweet Mary,

I have nothing useful to add to what has been said, but wanted to tell you that I am so profoundly sorry to hear about darling Puddy. I hope you can have some consolation in knowing that you did absolutely everything you possibly could have done -- and exponentially more than most pet owners would have even considered -- to try to make your girl better. You both fought as hard as you possibly could, and you should have no regrets.

Now, at last, she is better, but I know there's a Puddy-shaped hole in your heart. I hope that the love and prayers of all of your PT buddies -- as well as the continuing adoration of the rest of the Fur Posse -- can help keep you going during this horrible time.

I'm sure I'm not the only one crying over this thread tonight...!

Much love,
Diana

[Alysser]

Although I never replied to any Puddy threads, I have read a few of them and all I can say is I'm so sorry for your loss. I know what you're going through. ((hugs)) Again, please accept my deepest condolences.:love:

[krazyaboutkatz]

Mary, I'm so sorry to hear about Puddy's passing.:( She sure was a fighter and she lived a long life because of the wonderful care that you gave her. She'll be missed but not forgotten. Play hard at the Bridge girl. RIP sweet Puddy.:( Please take care. (((HUGS)))

[Vermontcat]

I'm so sorry to hear that your sweet Puddy has gone to the Rainbow Bridge.:(
She was such a beautiful girl with pretty markings and a cute black nose like my Samantha.
She was such a fighter and you did everything you possibly could for her.
It's been a month since my Samantha went to the Rainbow Bridge, I am just now able to look at her photos from this summer.
I know how it hurts to lose a special kitty that has been a part of your life for so long.
Sending hugs your way.

[kittykatharine]

Puddy you were loved by your mommy more than anyone could ever imagine. You touched her heart and her life in ways that will never ever be forgotten. Mary, you provided Puddy with the love and care that most cats can only dream of. She was not just a cat to you, she was your baby, your family, and most importantly your friend. Your persistence and dedication to help this beloved member of your family, inducts you into sainthood in my book. Again, I am so very sorry for your loss, and I hope you know that we are here for you here at PT if you need us. :love::love::love:

[Logan]

Mary, I had no idea. :( I am so sorry for your loss.

[catmandu]

We Are So Sorry That We Are So Late To Sending Our Condolences For Purrfect Pretty Puddy.
Shes Now With The Pet Angels In Vegas , Hitting All The Fancy Buffets , And Getting Ready For Her Next Trip To San Fransico With All Thier Sites And Fantastic Restaurants.
Shes Having A Great Old Time, But Will Not Be Truly Happy Until Her Meowmie Joins Her In Paradise.
One Fine Day.

[Donnaj4962]

Oh Mary, I am so sorry to read of Puddy's passing. I know that Puddy is watching over you, helping you to heal and trying to dry those tears as they fall. I know that Puddy was your "heart kitty" and no other can take her place, but love on your other posse members and you will always have the most wonderful memories of your baby.

(((hugs))) coming to you from me and the girls here in Indiana.

[Medusa]

We Are So Sorry That We Are So Late To Sending Our Condolences For Purrfect Pretty Puddy.
Shes Now With The Pet Angels In Vegas , Hitting All The Fancy Buffets , And Getting Ready For Her Next Trip To San Fransico With All Thier Sites And Fantastic Restaurants.
Shes Having A Great Old Time, But Will Not Be Truly Happy Until Her Meowmie Joins Her In Paradise.
One Fine Day.

I can rest much easier now that I know that Gary's Cat Angel Army is looking out for my Puddy girl. Just reading those words "one fine day" helps me to exhale.

[Purr-tender]

Oh Mary, I am so so sorry!! My heart breaks for you. Like some of the others, I have been checking on Puddy every day but just staying on the side line.I was encouraged the other day when she seemed to be coming around. I was gone yesterday and just got a chance to check in today and was totally floored to find out she was gone! Sweet Puddy is at peace now, I know how much she loved you and how deeply you loved her. You were both very blessed. I will keep you in my prayers.

Mary

[Medusa]

Night time has set in again, the hour that I always dread. I'm missing my little Puddy something fierce. I cleaned her room today instead of waiting until Saturday, my usual deep cleaning day. I thought I was being smart, dealing w/the pain now instead of postponing it. But I wasn't ready. Seeing her little bed and the new fountain that I bought just for her, all of her things, it was just too much. I've been feeling such sadness and now that it's dark, it's worse. I know that it'll get better; I've been through this before but as some of you have noted, Puddy was my heart kitty. So many of you have lost your beloved pets, so I hope you'll forgive me if it seems like I'm trying to drag this situation on. I'm really not; I just feel better when I let my feelings out and what better place to do that than PT? I wish I could turn back the clock to last weekend. Saturday and Sunday were her best days in months. I guess I just should comfort myself w/the fact that she's having even better days now. She is, isn't she?

[Catty1]

Even before last weekend, her really good days - I remember the day she gave the fountain a couple of licks just to show you, and then kept on being stubborn about the tub faucet.

She IS having wonderful days now, Mary. I wish we each could get a clear message from loved ones who have died that they are now all right. They ARE.

She's likely rounded up her own Posse at the Bridge. :)

{{{{hugs}}}} :love:

Someone in another post said you did the right thing...you did make the decision, but Puddy decided on her own. All she had was the shot to ease her breathing - and then she left.

Oscar is my heart kitty, but I just can't hold back because it will hurt one day. You didn't hold back either...we just love them no matter what.

How is the Posse reacting?

Take care

[Medusa]

Even before last weekend, her really good days - I remember the day she gave the fountain a couple of licks just to show you, and then kept on being stubborn about the tub faucet.

She IS having wonderful days now, Mary. I wish we each could get a clear message from loved ones who have died that they are now all right. They ARE.

She's likely rounded up her own Posse at the Bridge. :)

{{{{hugs}}}} :love:

Someone in another post said you did the right thing...you did make the decision, but Puddy decided on her own. All she had was the shot to ease her breathing - and then she left.

Oscar is my heart kitty, but I just can't hold back because it will hurt one day. You didn't hold back either...we just love them no matter what.

How is the Posse reacting?

Take care

Thanx, Candace. The Fur Posse is ok. Puddy was isolated upstairs for the last couple of months and towards the end, I didn't even bring her downstairs to eat breakfast w/them because she wouldn't eat and would just walk away and scamper back upstairs. So I think they're all used to her being gone. Even when I brought her downstairs wrapped in a towel and took her outdoors on the patio, they seemed not to notice. I sat indoors a few minutes w/her so that they could see her and they sniffed a second and moved on. Wish I could be that way.

I decided to have one of Puddy's fudgesicles a few minutes ago and I sat on the sofa and Cgirl hopped up beside me, looked up at me as if to say "Let me help you w/that, Mom" and she took a big slurp. So I guess the tradition will continue w/Cgirl. Maybe that was Puddy's way of telling me that it's ok to let her go. I just don't want to yet.

[phesina]

Oh, Mary, what a beautiful tribute you've written to Puddy. I'm reading with LES. What a beautiful, wonderful love you share!

I'm so very sorry for your loss. Lots of hugs and purrs to you and the rest of the Fur Posse.

Rest in peace, sweet Puddy. Watch over your meowmie, she misses you very much.

There is a candle burning in my window for her.. an old Celtic custom, I was told, to light the soul on its way to heaven and the Rainbow Bridge.

Love,
Pat, Peony, Sydney, Poppy, Elmer, Bob, and Priscilla Angel who is so excited and happy to welcome Puddy!

[Medusa]

Oh, Mary, what a beautiful tribute you've written to Puddy. I'm reading with LES. What a beautiful, wonderful love you share!

I'm so very sorry for your loss. Lots of hugs and purrs to you and the rest of the Fur Posse.

Rest in peace, sweet Puddy. Watch over your meowmie, she misses you very much.

There is a candle burning in my window for her.. an old Celtic custom, I was told, to light the soul on its way to heaven and the Rainbow Bridge.

Love,
Pat, Peony, Sydney, Poppy, Elmer, Bob, and Priscilla Angel who is so excited and happy to welcome Puddy!

Thank you so much, Pat. I lit a candle and placed it on Puddy's grave when I buried her and it rained that very night. Her candle still burned strong for the longest time. It was only when the rain poured hard that the flame finally went out. I would get up during the night and look out my bedroom window so that I could see the candle flame and I was amazed at brightly it was glowing even through the rain. That's my Pud. It took a real storm to put her light out, just as in real life.

[pomtzu]

[QUOTE=Medusa;2068990] So many of you have lost your beloved pets, so I hope you'll forgive me if it seems like I'm trying to drag this situation on.(/QUOTE)

I for one don't feel like you're dragging it on. Some people just bottle it all up and keep it inside, whereas you can speak openly about it. It's probably the best therapy for you! Just to never mention Puddy again is not an option, and I'm glad to see you sharing your feelings. We all miss her too - reading about her every day - it wouldn't seem right if there wasn't anything left for you to share with us.

And her days a wonderful, and she's passing the time in love and play until you are reunited.

[momtomany]

Mary what better place than here to share your grief with us, after all we are your Pet Talk family. Grief for our fur babies doesn't go away in a day, it stay with us for a long time. My heart still aches for the ones that have gone before me. Share with us as we share with you. I do hope God's comfort is there and will be there for all the times you need it. Remember you are loved by many on this site.

[mamaducky]

So many of you have lost your beloved pets, so I hope you'll forgive me if it seems like I'm trying to drag this situation on. I'm really not; I just feel better when I let my feelings out and what better place to do that than PT? I wish I could turn back the clock to last weekend. Saturday and Sunday were her best days in months. I guess I just should comfort myself w/the fact that she's having even better days now. She is, isn't she?

You are so absolutely NOT "dragging the situation on", Mary -- for goodness' sake, it's only been a couple of days! Nobody -- especially not around these PT parts -- would think such a thing. I still cry sometimes over the loss of my darling Murphy, and it's been over 6 years since he went to the Bridge.

Moreover, you're always so generous with your compassion and advice that there are many, many people here who want to be there for you just as you are for others. My best advice to you at this point is to feel however you want to, whenever you want to. It's how you're going to get better -- which is what you know your "heart kitty" Puddy wants for you as she's raiding the fudgesicle freezer at the RB. (Who knows? Maybe she & Murph are hanging out -- or, as Gary would tell us, hitting the buffets in Vegas!)

It really sucks to be without them, though, doesn't it? (((HUGS))) to you as you go through these first (and worst) few days.

Much love,
Diana

[chocolatepuppy]

Mary, I'm so sorry about Puddy. It really hurts for a long time. :( Don't feel you're 'dragging' this out, keep talking about her. {hugs}

[gini]

Mary, don't you ever feel as though you are dragging this on. When I lost my first heart kitty, Sugar, it took me months to wrap my head around the reality that he truly was gone and I grieved. I lost him in 1985 and I still have his cat dishes and his original litter box.

I am glad that you have a visit from your son to look forward to......and that will help.

xxoo Gini

[Medusa]

Thanx, everyone. I had a feeling that you'd understand. I have a good friend that I met when I lived in Sedona, AZ. She moved there from England and a couple of years after I moved back to Ohio, she moved again back to England. We've kept in touch all these years; it's been 13 years now and we talk on the phone regularly. She had to have her dog Sunny PTS a couple of weeks ago and I helped her through that and then when Puddy died, she helped me. She's a hospice nurse and grief counselor and she knew exactly what to say. And believe me, she has had her own share of troubles. Her brother became ill and she flew to England to see him and he died before she could make it to his bedside. On the day of his funeral, she got a call from the U.S. saying that the hemorrhoids that she thought she had turned out to be rectal cancer. So this is one strong lady.

She wanted to give me some time, so she emailed me and then called me today. She never got to meet any of my cats and I never got to meet any of her dogs but the first thing she said when she called me today, besides 'How are you', is "Tell me about Puddy". So I rambled on but it felt GOOD. My friends here say they understand but truly, I know they don't. When I told them about how expensive Puddy's meds were, the standard reply was "For a cat??? Are you gonna pay that???" I'll admit that I was stunned at the high price but never for a second did I think that I wouldn't pay it. I was concerned about HOW I was going to pay it but never IF.

Clare, my friend from England, told me that grief is like a big box that we carry around on our shoulders. In the beginning, it's so heavy that we can hardly carry it. As time passes, the box becomes lighter and smaller, to the point where we can put it in our pocket. We take it out occasionally and look at it, then put it back in our pocket to be dealt with again later when the need arises. After a while, it's no longer painful to look at the box but it helps us to recall the good times. Right now, the box that I'm carrying is pretty darned big but it's getting smaller and lighter every day, thanx to my good friends here on PT, Clare, the Fur Posse and, of course, my son and my ex-husband John. Ok, now I'm gonna cry again....

[carole]

Your friend makes so much sense and i love the way she put that to you,it takes time Mary, some of us sooner, some of us much later, when i lost my sooti, i grieved constantly for over three months, infact it was not really healthy the way i grieved in a sense, sure i cryed, but life just seemed so empty ,and i had my hubby ,kids and Ash,at the time,to think about,but i was consumed with it all, especially guilt as well,it was not until my sweet lexie arrived, that the grief i felt eased, and i got back to normal, he has never left my thoughts,and will always hold a special place in my heart,as Puddy will with you.

You take care now and remember it is only very early days yet, you are doing extremely well,HUGS.

[Emeraldgreen]

Clare, my friend from England, told me that grief is like a big box that we carry around on our shoulders. In the beginning, it's so heavy that we can hardly carry it. As time passes, the box becomes lighter and smaller, to the point where we can put it in our pocket. We take it out occasionally and look at it, then put it back in our pocket to be dealt with again later when the need arises. After a while, it's no longer painful to look at the box but it helps us to recall the good times.

What an amazing way to think about grief. I can only imagine how heavy that box must be for you right now. I hope that you will continue to allow yourself to cry whenever, laugh whenever, post whenever and think of Puddy, good times and bad when the need arises. It will all sort itself out.
I remember when Charlie died last year under anesthesia, I was a complete wreck. I was angry with God and I cried buckets for weeks. I shocked myself with how much grief was pouring out. That has now passed but I still can't look at his picture without my heart feeling very heavy. And part of me hopes that never goes away because it is a reminder of how much he meant to me.

Puddy was your family and anyone who doesn't get that just hasn't allowed themselves to be 'touched' by an animal the way they are able to do if we let them. I often receive the same feedback with regard to money spent on pets and I don't even bother trying to explain anymore. Hopefully a special pet will cross their paths one day and steal their hearts so they too will know what it's all about. ;)

I wouldn't doubt for a second that your Puddy girl is visiting you. That's so neat about hearing the 'tap tap tap' the other night. Could it be the fabulous fudgesicle feline? Why not?? :)

[Medusa]

the fabulous fudgesicle feline? :)

Love it! :)

[rg_girlca]

Mary, I'm sorry that I am just seeing this now as I've been away from PT for a while.

I am so, so sorry on the loss of your beautiful Puddy. You're memorial to her had me in tears. What a tough little girl she was for sure.
May the loving memories comfort you and help you overcome the pain.

Rest in Peace beautiful Puddy and have fun on the RB.

[lizbud]

I am so sorry that you lost Puddy.:( I know you will miss her. Puddy
is at peace now & will stay in your heart forever. Rest In Peace sweet girl.

[Daisy and Delilah]

I'm so sorry. Please except my heartfelt condolences.

Rest in Peace Puddy:(

[carole]

Mary just wondering how you are doing, i see you contributing actively on PT, so am happy to see that, thinking of you and take care,your'e heart is still healing, and know we are still caring.:love::love:

[Moesha]

Did I read somewhere that Puddy also had bone cancer also? I wanted to also send you warm thoughts.

[Zippy]

I am so sorry to hear about Puddy.:(
Rest in Peace Beautiful Puddy.

[Catty1]

Moesha, I think it was in another thread...but Mary said that when Dr Lee reviewed Puddy's x-rays, he saw that cancer had started in her bones.

The pain of that would be unimaginable...as heartbreaking as it is, I am glad that Puddy passed on before that cancer made itself felt. :love:

[Medusa]

Yes, I had forgotten to mention that Puddy had developed bone cancer in her legs but I was so fuzz headed right after she died. Had I known that earlier, events would probably have transpired differently. In the end, it's the pneumonia that took her, a cruel twist of fate after she had improved so much on the B vitamins. Still, she had two days at the end of her 14 years when she was my Puddy girl, so I'm thankful for that.

And I'm doing ok. Night time is still rough because Puddy isn't upstairs waiting for me and early morning is strange because I don't have to line up her meds and get her subQ's and syringes ready, etc. My PT friendships have helped me immensely as have my memories of my Calico Queen. Thank you for asking, everyone. You're the best.

[Laura's Babies]

I am at a loss for words... My heart goes out to you...

[thesun898]

I can't say any more right now. I'm too sick w/grief.

ETA: I brought Puddy home when she was 5 weeks old. She had a metal splint on her leg because she was born w/her left hind leg sticking out like a wing. Her mother rejected her, so her human family bottle fed her. Their vet suggested amputating Puddy's leg but they didn't want to do that so he put the metal splint on it, causing her to drag her leg behind her as she walked. After a brief time, the family realized that it was going to be too much work to take care of her and decided to have her put to sleep. My son's girlfriend at that time heard about her and said "Please don't do anything yet! My boyfriend's mom rescues cats. Let me talk to her about this". I took one look at her, picked her up and said "What about it? Wanna come home w/me?" and she hissed at me. That clinched the deal. I love cats w/"catitude" and she was loaded w/it. I wanted to bring her little orange brother home, too, because he was busily chewing on my shoe while I was holding her but I knew that I was going to be in enough trouble w/my husband just for adding one more cat to the household, bringing the total to 4 at that time.

On the way home I tried to think of what I could do to soften up my husband and then it came to me: as soon as I get out of the car, I should hold her up in front of my face, leg in the splint hanging down, both of us looking pathetic. It worked. My husband took one look and said "Oh, poor little sweety". I knew we had him. He said "What should we name her?" and I said "I already named her Puddy, as in 'I tot I taw a Puddy Tat'. "Perfect!" he said.

I had to keep her isolated until her tests revealed that it was ok to be around the rest of the Fur Posse and so she had the run of the downstairs to herself. When she was finally allowed to be around the others, I knew that sweet Pidgie would be the one to introduce her to first. Rambunctious little Puddy ran over to Pidge and head butted her, hissing and spitting and carrying on. Calm as can be, Pidge put her gigantic paw on Puddy's head and held it to the floor, Puddy hissing and paws flying until she tuckered out. Pidge never took her paw off Puddy's head until she calmed down. They were good buddies after that. Peeka and Boo were easy. Puddy had them buffaloed from the getgo. Coco Puff was Puddy's horsefly, always bothering her. Yodie wisely kept her distance. Specs was scared to death of her. But Creamsicle...little Cgirl loved Puddy and Puddy loved her, too. She's the only one that she would snuggle up to and allow to groom her. I know that Cgirl will miss her buddy Puddy.

Shortly thereafter my vet, Dr. LeBeau, said "Let's take a look at this leg". He removed the cast and saw that the metal splint had rubbed an ulcer clear down to the bone. He treated it and said "I don't think this is going to work. You should just leave the splint off. She'll walk w/a limp. Can you live w/that?" I said "If she can live w/it, I can live w/it. You don't have to be perfect to live in my house". My husband said that she walked like John Wayne and he affectionately called her Jane Wayne after that. From then on Puddy led a pampered life w/the Fur Posse, in her later years developing chronic renal failure, going on subcutaneous fluids off and on until her passing today.

She was the toughest cat I've ever known and my current vet, Dr. Lee, said he's never had a patient like her, who came back even stronger after every health challenge, until today, that is. Some people misunderstood Puddy and called her "mean", I guess because she hissed a lot. HA! That was her way of letting us all know who was boss. I'll miss my Shnorkey so much. My life will never be the same. This house now has a huge void. I wish I could hold her tiny little 5 lb. furry body up to my face just one more time, look into those fiery eyes and tell her "You're my most favoritest kitty kat in the whole wide world ever ever ever". And hear her hiss and I would laugh. Not today. Not ever again. Take a nice long rest my little Calico Queen. Then look for Peeka there; she's waiting for you. And please wait for me when my time comes. Until then, I'll miss you and I'm still counting on you to "watch the house for Mommy" from the spirit world. I know you can do it. You're Puddy.

It is tuff to lose a pet I almost lost my cat tigger to congestive heart failure, the vet wanted to give up but i told him to fight for tigger i just lost everything in a flood and i could not stand to lose my cat, not tigger is doing fine and has to have lacix for the rest of his life, but he is worth the 7.50 for the meds, like puddy he is one of a kind