Loss of a Fur-baby

It's been two weeks since my long time fur-baby Tiger passed away knowing he was loved and well cared for. My son via phone was there with me as the veterinarian administered the medicine to allow him to cross over the rainbow bridge. It's hard to let go of a family pets as many are considered to some to be a family members. He was buried in our yard in a decorated box and I received a ceramic imprint of Tigers paw and it's comforting to pull it out and place it next to my heart. 
Tiger was born in 2003 born in my hand. He was with me and my son for many years and he was a "guardian of the family." He was my son's protector and unofficial "guide-dog" as he is blind.
The last few years Tiger was featured in my web-series I'm Your Mum as my characters'  emotional support dog and his arthritis began to get worse. In the last two weeks he seemed to go downhill quickly. It was the humane thing to let him go. But that was hard as heck. 
If there is a lesson to learned it is that we all should celebrate and be present with the people, loved ones and fur babies in our lives. So many walks I had with Tiger I realize how distant I was from him. I wonder if he felt ignored but I'd like to think that he understood and forgave me. Near the end of his life however, I did make the effort to put my petty BS and issues aside. I was  "present" with him in the moment and made him part of my conversation. I acknowledged him. It was like making him feel like walking was something we did together. Put the cell phone away and just be present.
This also includes children or family members. Be Present and hear them. Acknowledge them. You don't have to be alone to feel alone. Many people feel alone even in full houses. Pay attention and love one another,  because life is too short. Choose to celebrate the people and pets in your life, because once they're gone it's too late to say I love you. 

​Sile

Tiger's Place