[smartpuppiepets]

Go through losses is never an easy process. But it helps to change the way you think about about it, if instead of concentrating on the loss and the experiences you will not have, to concentrate on all the good moments and the best companionship you had with her. If you think back and could go back in time, would you consider not having her? We all know the answer, you would not have passed the opportunity to share all the great experiences you have had with her. The first time I personally experienced the loss of a dear dog family member I was a child. My Grandma had the Shephards and one was my "babysitter", Layla. Because of the reality of life at that time we only have one black and white picture of her. I carry the results of that relationship with me to this day, and yes ( secretly ) I still cry after these many years, sweet tears of someone who remembers the loyalty and beauty of a relationship between 2 very different species, a human and a dog. We can not stretch their time with us, some will give us longer years and others for reasons beyond our control will be abruptly taken away from us, that is the truth for our humans as well. We honor the bond and the growing we experienced together by cherishing those precious moments and keeping them in our hearts. You are enjoying every moment with your little friend. She is enjoying your care and love and feeling safe and well cared by the human she trusts. When the right time comes, your heart will remain strong and you will be at peace, just like her will be at peace as well. If I could say one thing, try not to think on the loss that will come until it is time, and just live the moments you have now. Life is so uncertain, but so beautiful at the same time, it is worthy living every minute ... And so many times these minutes are stretched out beyond prediction. When you know who you are and what you do, the future brings sweet tears of a dear "missed friend" , precious cherished moments, longing for the moments of companionship. At the right time these tears and memories will get you ready to continue this 'honoring', either by having the courage to give yourself to another relationship with another dog, or advocating or another very particular way, very yours, that will carry on the amazing experience that that friendship caused in you making you a better human. Well, that is how I feel , I guess this thread made me think and rethink a lot of why my relationship with dogs is so strong and so important and have helped me go through so much hardship in life. At the end, I am forever thankful God gave us the opportunity to experience this bond with animals.
My love and my heart to you and cheering the good and precious moments you both still are gonna have.
Xoxo