An empty place in the heart

Somehow, we're supposed to get over the loss of a pet without grieving

By Diane Dennis

Lifestyles Northwest, Apr 1, 2007, Updated Oct 30, 2009

Contact life transition coach Diane Dennis at www.lifetransitionguide.com or call 503-972-3441.

It was when she started to fall, kind of like doing an awkward take on the splits, that I began to worry. Her doctor said nonchalantly that she was just a bit clumsy, and I worked myself into believing it. But the truth, like cream, finds its way to the top, and that’s when the unbelievable becomes real.

She was in my life for more than 10 years. Her companionship was comfortable and expected. That isn’t to say we didn’t have our differences. I said, stay off the living room couch, so she did, unless I was away. One time I forgot my wallet, so I pulled the car back into the driveway, entered the front door and caught her red-handed lounging naked on the sofa. Her head went down, ashamed, and she slinked away as I stood there, confrontational with hands on my hips in dismay.

She started to lose weight, and her hair thinned. Again, the doctor found nothing unusual, and of course the staff delighted in her sweet disposition, distracting me from fear.

1 | 2 Next Page >>