A Tragic Loss

[Nicole]

When I think about the loss of my Shadow (named because she was ALWAYS following me or with me at home) and the things she loved (playing ball at the park for one)...one ofthe things that haunts me is the fact that she died alone at the vet's while I was on vacation. Now I know the loss of a pet is NOTHING compared to the loss of a child...and I don't mean to minimize the trama that the famlies in Connecticut are suffering...but my heart goes out to them because I can "sort of" empathize with what they are going through/will go through...wishing I had been there when she died, haunted by the fact that she was alone, wondering if I hadn't gone on vacation but had been with her if she would have pulled through, crying for months...even sometimes now over 2 years later when I see a picture of her or think of memories, getting rid of all her things...the list goes on and on.

These families are going to need help and prayers not just in the near future, but for a lifetime. May we all send thoughts and prayers not just this holiday season but for months and years to come as they struggle with the losses they have suffered.

[Lisa, Daisy & Dexter]

I try very hard not to think of the day we lost our previous dog Zach, it was a very sad day. What I do think about is all the joy he brought to our family and know that her was loved. We are now able to tell funny stories and realize how special he was.

Of course there is no comparison to what happened in CT but that tragedy brings up thoughts of our own, children, loved ones and yes, that includes pets. There is no special rules for anyone's personal grief.

[Lynda Kamrath]

It is so hard to deal with a loss, even without feeling guilt because of that loss.  I have unfortunately lost a child, a sister, and a beloved "heartdog".  It never seems to get easier and the pain is always with you.  This loss was particularly difficult as it was so senseless.  Getting over it is not going to be easy for these families or the community.  I don't blame the teachers and students who say they will never go back into that building.  It is just too painful to imagine.

[Cheryl and Finnegan]

A good thought to put out there.  When you lose a family member, a pet, or a friend a loss is a loss.  Love is love.  Maybe you --and the love you gave her--were in Shadow's mind when she passed.  

[Bonnie and Kona]

I am so sorry for your loss of Shadow.  I never get over the loss of my sister. I cannot imagine losing my child. My heart and prayers go out to all experiencing such traumatic loss.... including you, Nicole. 

[Hailey and Oliver]

  It is very sad when you lose a pet or relative.  I have lost both .  My old dog Kobie a lab, and my aunt.  What the people and families in Connecticut are going through is indeed tragic, my prayers will definently go to them and everyone in Connecticut.

[F, Calla & Luca]

I am sorry for your loss of Shadow. I truly do not believe your being there would have saved her or that she if she was so ill knew you were not. But surely she did know for her lifetime that she was loved and cared for.

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

Thank you for sharing this. 

[Laurie, Fudge, and Vern]

I am so sorry for your loss and the regrets you feel. Your dog knew you loved her. Hold that in your heart!  The situation in CT is heartbreaking and my thoughts and prayers go out to all of the families.

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

A loss is a loss.  No, a dog is not a human child, but losing a dog that is loved and adored is a major loss. Your shared empathy is valuable, especially in that you were not there as the Newton children's parents were not there.  I think that 'we' always feel that our superman presence might have changed the outcome.  We carry guilt with us when, in reality, no one can always 'be there'  to shield our loved ones. With you, I send my prayers and love to those families.