Three days after Henry suddenly passed away the funeral director from Pet Passages located in Lee, NH, called to tell me that his ashes were ready to pick up. Besides the fact that Steve took the time to talk to me about Henry's loss he also gave me a sympathy card alongside his final paw print.
It was oddly comforting to take his ashes home and place them on the mantle but since then I have tried to ignore looking at it because it reminds me of the horrifying final moments of his life.
Everyone who reached out with words of comfort have told me that my grief will subside but it will never go away and I hope you are right!
I don't know what possessed me to take a picture of Henry as I stood crying in the Rainbow Room but all I can think of was that perhaps he would've wanted me to have a final remembrance of him. I'd like to think that many others have taken photos of their pets right before final arrangements were made.
Seeing Henry's crossed paws for the last time reminded me that this one of his favorite sleeping positions so,in my mind, it convinced me that he was at peace when he passed away in my lap.
No one likes to talk about or even think about a beloved pet's death but when it does I hope you will consider an alternative to having your pet's after-life care to be taken care of at a funeral home such as the one I've used rather than at your veterinarian's office.
Thank you so much for taking the time to share comforting words with me during this difficult time!
I'm glad he is home. I always felt relief when I was able to do that.
ReplyDeleteHugs...
Monty and Harlow
My Abby left this world in my arms in my bedroom at 9:55pm on a Monday night. So I had to wait until the following morning to bring her to the Vet who took care of her remains. But before I did I took her final photos. There is closure but for a later time because your mind cannot truly grasp and fathom what is happening. Plus for myself I wanted one last time to photograph her in her chair curled up looking like she was asleep. I did it in dignity not showing the things she or I would not want to show. I won't pretend and say it will be easy but time will soften the ache in your heart. I am still looking for peace to the absence of her presence. ((Hugs))
ReplyDelete(((hugs)))) and much love
ReplyDeleteWhat you're saying is completely true. I know that everybody must say the same thing, but I just think that you put it in a way that everyone can understand. I'm sure you'll reach so many people with what you've got to say.
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