Tip 9 –Preparation for Revel’s Passage

Linda Fortune
Author of Regal: An Intimate View of One Magnificent FelinePreparation for Revel’s Passage.
Tip 9: The passage of an animal friend affords us the opportunity to grow and act through love and tender care.

Welcome!
In the midst of all the wonderful feeling of connection as I cared Revel and Regal, I eventually had to come to terms with what was in their best interest and plan their passages. Never having been responsible for that part of the experience with any of my other pets when I was a child, I eventually sought practical advice from my vets, created my own ways of spending our last days together, and then relied upon my meditation practice for strength and guidance. During the course of these two experiences, I have grown in my ability to handle grieving, saying goodbye, and honoring the passage.
The hardest question for me to deal with was the issue of euthanasia. My upbringing raised a serious question about it. One day I was listening to a talk by my spiritual teacher. A reference was made to this issue and, although I cannot now remember exactly what was said, I do remember that I felt relief. It was a permission giving statement that allowed me to consider that option if it was in the best interest of my animal friend. I did not want any animal friend to suffer unnecessarily if that were the situation.
Well, that time did eventually come for Revel. Having become gradually blind, losing all control of his functions, and waiting probably about three weeks longer then recommended by the vet, I finally was able to make the decision to let Revel go. This was one of the hardest decisions that I had ever made and I had resisted the advice of my vet for a number of days. I finally was able muster the courage for the benefit of Revel.

Next Entry: Tip 10 and How I Handled Revel’s passage.

With blessings, Linda

Filed under Understanding Pet Loss & Grief |