So sorry for your loss of Shadow. I relate so much to your description of the grieving process. I lost my precious Molly Beagle October 18. 2004. She was 15 years old and my best friend. When she died the grief was so intense I didn't think I could survive it. The pain was physical as well as emotional and would wash over me in waves. I still don't think a day passes that I don't think of her and miss her. Sometimes I just burst out crying and the pain feels almost like it did when I first lost her. The pain is more subtle now but still there. I think it always will be on a certain level. I take comfort in keeping her things; her bowl, her bed even though I have put them away. I too look forward to the day when we are together again. If I had my way I would fastforward to that time now. but I believe that we each have a purpose to our lives (Molly had hers too) and it is my job to live out mine and fufill what ever I am meant to do. I pray that Molly will come and greet me when it is my time to go. Some people cannot understand how the loss of a pet can be such a devastating loss. But sometimes animals provide the greatest source of unconditional love in a person's life and the bond that develops between some people and pets is truly as strong as any loving bond between creatures. I like to think of her running free, her ears flying in the wind ( she was crippled form arthritis for the last year of her life and could hardly walk). I know she is no longer in pain and I am grateful for that. The Rainbow Bridge give me great comfort as does talking with other grieving pet owners. I don't even try to discuss this grief with other people. What is the point? It's so nice to find sites like this where we can come together and get support.
