Hi Gina, You’ve brought back some achy memories of a similar experience with a much loved cat here. It’s been 10 years since we had to do the very same thing. Where does time go?

I was particularly touched by the part when you mention how our pets, who are so much a part of our family and life have such short lifespans. I try not to live in too much denial about anything, but I think that is how I allow myself to adore and revel in them instead of obsess that I will someday lose them. If I allowed myself to go there, the fear of the impending loss would prevent me from allowing them to be such an integral part of my life.

Three years ago this month we had to make the most difficult decision we’ve ever had to make…to put our sweet cat, Penny to sleep. She was only 12, which isn’t really old for a cat, but she got cancer, and she was suffering. By the time we made the decision, I don’t know which was worse, the fact that she was sick and we couldn’t do anything to help her, or the fact that we had to put her to sleep.

As hard as it is to accept, maybe there is a lesson about life and love to be learned…

Darn those critters for working their wiles on our hearts! My best to your sweet doggie!

Gotta go pet my kitties!

Sauerkraut, we’ve lived through the fish thing, too. The RT was about five at the time and we figured he’d learn responsibility taking care of those fish. Well, we’re the ones who took care of them and when they went belly up, he seemed not to notice. *sigh* As far as being old and cranky goes, I’m thinking that actually adds to one’s life expectancy. I do believe it’s synonymous with being what my grandmother called “full of piss and vinegar.” Which is what I am. An authority on the subject, here and at your service.

And does the management know the Sox won because there was something in the water?

MGL — Thanks! And treats abound here for Ms. Biggedy. No worries there. And I, too, know how she feels. Our bottles of glucosamine are lined up on the counter right next to one another.

I hate it when the kids or animals are sick..I would much rather it be me.

Biggedy I can relate to the whole sore joint situation and old girl you have my sympathy…hope you are moving more freely very soon and more treats I say…bring on the treats Please Mum!

Two days later, a store-bought was floating belly up on the bottom of the tank. This time he was more philosophical about the whole death and dieing thing. But he cried because it brought him back to Fishie.

Then we noticed the 3rd fish - Red Sox - was lethargic at the back of the tank. Got the water tested, added some goop and voila… Red Sox came back to life. Just as the baseball team had and at about the same time. That’s when he knew they’d win the Series.

A couple of weeks ago, I got 6 more Fishie-type goldfish and a catfish. The catfish I buried just this morning. It’s crowded in that metal box. The tank only has 3 fish in it. 5 of the new ones died already.

And then there’s sauerkraut, god bless him. Overweight. Old. And cranky. Doesnt move much except when he hears a meal being loaded into his bowl. Kids are already talking about what to do when that day comes.

I am not looking forward to it.

Plus, they already have plans to get a perky young kitten when he passes. Gads.

Glad your pup is feeling better. meow.

Sorry, Beth. It made me a bit teary-eyed as well. But she was able to jump in the car today to go pick up my son at school. I’m keeping an eye on her. And you’re right — it sucks that they have such a grip on our hearts. Who knew I’d ever be a dog person. My two cats are a bit older than the dog…