Your story really tugged at my heart strings. No matter how long we have our furkids, it's never long enough. Most if not all of us here on Pet Talk have had your experience, unfortunately. It's so painful that the pain is almost palpable. However, as Freedom pointed out, Sam knew he was loved and he loves you even more now for doing the last act of kindness for him by helping him to the Rainbow Bridge. It sounds as though Sam had acute kidney failure and it does take them rather fast. My Peeka had it and I had to help her to the Bridge w/in 3 days of the diagnosis. My Puddy had chronic kidney failure but I was able to keep her around for 6 years or so. So try not to think too much about how it turned out. Instead try to think about all the good times that you had together. As time passes, it will be easier to do this.

Also, your other furkids need you now more than ever. I'm sure that they feel the loss of Sam as well and they're probably wondering what in the world happened and when is he coming back. You're a fortunate person to have such a kind soul and more furkids to comfort you. It'll get better, truly. Keep the faythe. (((HUGS)))