Dr. Magazu on Losing a Pet
Many pets have come to call my house their home, whether it is for a day, a week, or for their lifetime. It’s the nature of my profession. It seems everyday at the hospital there comes along a poor animal in need of special care. Sometimes we find homes for strays or unwanted pets, and sometimes these homeless creatures need nurturing for a time until they are ready for their new home. The rehab program often means time at my house! And sometimes they never leave!
One very special kitten never left our home. She was born just eight days before my youngest daughter, Melissa. Muffin and Melissa grew up together, and my memories of our children growing up almost always include Muffin. Whether it is Muffin nestled in Melissa’s arms while watching a movie, chasing a laser light around the family room, or pouncing on an unsuspecting dog from behind an easy chair, most family memories include Muffin. I remember she once proudly caught a mouse and dropped it on my unsuspecting wife while she was in bed. The poor mouse went one way and my screaming wife went the other. Muffin sat steady on the bed with that look only a cat can make. We laugh about that till this day!
Muffin was diagnosed with kidney disease at 12 years old and needed lifelong special treatment, including a special diet. Two years later my heart sank when I diagnosed her with cancer. We did everything we could to help Muffin live comfortably, including surgery and chemotherapy. We closely monitored her, and naturally saw her activity decrease as she aged, although I must admit she still enjoyed torturing the dog at every opportunity.
The summer of 2007 was Muffins last. She was 21 years old. When Muffin started to fail it was time to face the reality of life. As a father I saw my youngest daughter quietly go through the terrible pain of this reality. Melissa was losing her lifelong friend. As Muffin’s doctor I had the responsibility to do everything I could do ensure Muffin never suffered. Certain procedures could have possibly prolonged her beating heart but it was not in the best interest of Muffin. This sweet, gentle, wonderful kitty deserved the most peaceful ending. Balancing my job as a father, doctor, and caretaker of this wonderful creature was my challenge. My wife and my children felt this loss deeper than I can describe. Muffin will always be remembered making that face that you and I know only a cat can make.
About two weeks after Muffin passed away, Melissa gave me a big hug and kiss thanking me for the care and not letting her best friend suffer. I cried more that I thought possible knowing my family was at peace and that we had done everything right for Muffin.
Finding the balance between our hearts and what is best for our pets is quite difficult. Sometimes our hearts are blind to what our eyes clearly see. At difficult times like these, the bond between you, your pet, and your veterinarian is most important. Our pets are special members of our family. We love them so much it is difficult to put these feelings into words. Our hearts will in time find peace knowing we made the right decisions for our pets.
At Swedesboro Animal Hospital, we are always ready to help you get through difficult times. You can establish a memorial for your loved pet on our website here at In Memoriam: The Rainbow Bridge with pictures and stories. We also recommend the following services who may be of help:
Pet Loss Support Help Line – (800) 565-1526 or (530) 752-3602
Click Here for More Pet Grief Counseling Phone Numbers
Click Here for the Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement for chat rooms, family tips and burial information.