Losing a pet is very painful

[Medusa]

Whenever we have to make that painful decision, our mind betrays us and fills our head with "what if" and "if only" and "I should have", etc. When those thoughts arise, ask yourself "Would I ever have purposely hurt Bootsy?" No, of course you wouldn't have and Bootsy knows that, too. He has even more love for you now that you valued him enough to do the final act of kindness for him. Your posse will miss him, too, but their sadness will disappear as you continue to shower them w/love and affection. The heartache will dissipate over time and when you think of Bootsy, you will be able to recall happier days and those memories will be a comfort to you. Take heart, you still have the rest of your furkids, and yourself as well, to take care of. RIP sweet Bootsy and peace to you, James.

[mamaducky]

When those thoughts arise, ask yourself "Would I ever have purposely hurt Bootsy?" No, of course you wouldn't have and Bootsy knows that, too.

James, I hope you took Mary's words to heart, because she is absolutely right. It's obvious from what you've said here that Bootsy knew nothing but love throughout his life -- which is so much more than so many animals (and people!) are able to have. You did not "let him down." You loved him, and took good care of him.

It is a sad but unavoidable fact of life that we all grow old and die -- and it really sucks for those of us who are left behind that our pets' lives are so much shorter than our own. It hurts when they have to go, and it keeps hurting for quite some time -- but that pain is the price we pay for the special times and love that we shared with these animals, and I think we'd all agree that it's worth it.

Meanwhile, we're sending love and prayers to you and your posse, and thinking of sweet Bootsy as he plays at the Rainbow Bridge.

All the best,
Diana

[bowlkat]

One other thing I've found, which is really spooky but COMFORTING in a way.... don't be at all surprised if one of your current pride suddenly takes up some of Bootsy's 'duties' for you, like waiting at the sink--
Well loved pets are never truly gone, they're always with us, and the pain is Godawful but you HAVE to know you did the best you could for Bootsy and HE KNOWS it.... he's waiting for you, as my departed are all waiting for me......

[Purr-tender]

James, I am so sorry for your huge loss. You have lost a much loved family member. I know how deep your grief is but it will ease. Just know you did a loving, unselfish act for Bootsy. She will always be with you. Be sure and give extra love to her posse.

Again, I am so very sorry for your loss.

Mary

[Pinot's Mom]

James,
I know the pain you're feeling and wish I had magic words for you.
You have lost a dear family member and there will be a hole in your heart, as well as some of your other fur babies hearts, for a while. It will heal; give it time. Take joy from the antics and love from the others; they give freely.
Please also know that putting an ill pet at peace is a humane and loving act. I think most of the people on this site have had to face it. My girl Jamara, who was 18, we had to send to Rainbow Bridge six years ago. She was very ill, had reached the stage where we couldn't even hand feed her any more, and she was still a trouper. We love her and miss her every day, but take joy in my baby girl Pinot; it wouldn't be fair to her if I didn't.
All of our hearts and prayers are with you in this time. Remember; you and Bootsy will be reunited and he'll be very happy to see you!