Crossing the Rainbow Bridge

Winter is a time for celebration and reflection – after Thanksgiving, Christmas and the New Year – after family time, friends, good food and cold but energizing days. It’s always good to look back at the past year, to reflect back on the things that have ended. Perhaps we reflect on the people and pets that have come and gone through our lives. If you have ever lost a pet, or if even now you are looking at their greying hairs and know it’s almost their time, then this note is for you. It is a reminder to be sad when you need to be sad, that it’s ok to cry and laugh, and sometimes at the same time. It’s okay to reflect, and to bring up all those amazing, beautiful, crazy memories, and to hold onto them.

Losing a pet is hard. Cats and dogs alike are always there. They are right at your feet, tripping you as you come in with groceries. They wake you up asking for food. They either snuggle with you as you scroll through your phone, or sit at your feet, or stand by the door and stare at you. Either way they watch you a little too often, and a little too intensely, and you start to wonder if other people’s pets are also this “friendly”. It is that fond attachment and constant presence that makes it sometimes unbearable to lose them.

And it’s even harder to say good bye. One thing I see as a Technician is many clients who do not know what to do after their pet has passed, what they want, or even what’s available to them. I encourage everyone to make plans for their pet’s aftercare. Did you know there are burial options for your pet? Are you someone who wants your pet’s ashes returned to you after cremation? Do you want the ashes placed in an urn or even a necklace? Do you want to place their favorite toy or blanket with them? Keep their collar or a bit of fur? 

There are countless options, which means there are also many decisions. And of course, we are here to help you with every step of the way, but taking some time to ask yourself these questions can help ease the difficulty in that moment. Below is a link for more information and services that are provided by Gateway Pet Memorial.

https://ontario.gatewaypetmemorial.com/

Whether you have lost a pet, or are starting to say goodbye, know that there is no trick to getting over the loss of a pet. There is no real “getting over it”. But time and memories help. Keep that video of the time they saw snow for the first time. Keep the picture where they photobombed your selfie. Tell their stories with your family and friends or even just to yourself. Think back on everything you’ve been through together – the good and not so good times.

Remember and reflect because together you’ve made some pretty great memories!

Chantal F., VT