As animal lovers and owners, we are so vulnerable.

When we welcome a new pet into our family, we know that the chances are that they’ll die before us.   And yet, we still open our hearts for the grief that will come.

We also know all the joy, laughter and TLC that we will give and receive.  That makes it all worthwhile.

Last week I saw friends struggling with the loss of a beloved pet.  It’s so hard to be the one grieving.  It seems just as hard to be the friend and know that there are no words that can make things ‘better’.   As I was pondering what to write to these folks, I had a light bulb go on.

Years ago on the Johnny Carson show I remembered hearing Jimmy Stewart read a poem about his dog, Beau.  I googled and found the video clip.  I watched and I laughed and I teared up too.  Jimmy Stewart is a master orator. His reading is beautiful and powerful.

I want to share it with you.  For many of you, it may be a repeat viewing.   Some of you may never have seen it.  It’s a classic and a keeper!

I plan to keep this link ‘on file’ and forward it to friends who are grieving their pet’s loss.  Though tears may flow – they will be a mixture of joyful and sad ones.   I believe that both emotions need to be felt for recovery to happen.

Click here or on the image below to make it happen.

Please share your reactions to this poem and presentation in the comment section below.  Do you have any tips that you can share that helped you or a friend get through the loss of a beloved pet?  I’d love to hear what has helped you.  We’ll all benefit from the sharing.

If you know someone who is grieving for a pet – please share this with them.