I had an entirely different topic planned for this month’s blog, but after yesterday's events, my heart is pulling me in another direction. It’s a subject every pet owner faces eventually, but one that never gets easier to talk about—saying goodbye.
As many of you know, I do Rover as a side gig and care for four regular dogs—two energetic puppies and two sweet seniors. Yesterday, one of my senior clients, Remington, crossed over the Rainbow Bridge.
Remington was 14.5 years old and had declined quickly over the past week. His back legs were growing weak, and his breathing had become labored. We took short, gentle walks so he could still enjoy the sunshine and fresh air, and even though his appetite had faded, he never turned down a cookie. He was always happy to see me, and I made sure he knew what a very good boy he was every time I visited.
Yesterday morning, I got the call that he wasn’t doing well and that his owner was taking him to the vet. In my heart, I knew I wouldn't be seeing him again. A few hours later, I got the message confirming what I already sensed—he was gone.
I cried for Remington and his owner, and I felt the familiar weight of sadness that comes when we lose a pet who’s become part of our hearts.
Anyone who’s ever loved a dog knows this is the hardest part of pet ownership. It’s the day we dread, the one we wish would never come. Some people I know have chosen never to get another pet, simply to avoid the heartbreak of this moment—and I understand that completely.
Our pets are more than animals. They are companions through every high and low. They sit quietly by our side during illness, they celebrate life’s small victories, and they love us without conditions or expectations.
When my husband went through cancer treatment, our dogs and cat were his devoted care team. They were there when he walked through the door from treatment, offering comfort and companionship daily.
Right now, a family member is recovering from a stroke while staying with my sister. Her Boxer, Vigo, has taken on the role of protector and caregiver. He knows something isn’t right and stays close, as if to say, “I’ve got you.”
I recently saw that there are organizations dedicated to supporting people through the grief of losing a pet, and what a truly wonderful idea that is. The loss is real. The love was deep. Having a place to turn for comfort can make a world of difference.
I read stories every day on social media about people who’ve lost their beloved pets, and each one hits home. I’ve had eight dogs and one cat in my lifetime, each living a long and joyful life. But with each goodbye, I lost a piece of myself.
If you’ve been there, you understand. If you're there now, my heart is with you. And if you're not there yet, hold them tighter today.
Because the truth is, the price of all that unconditional love is the heartbreak of letting go and even knowing that—we’d do it all again.