“It was JUST a dog” is something I have heard people say when someone they know has lost a pet. For many people though, myself definitely included, losing a beloved pet is like losing a member of my family. Since I was a little girl I’ve always had a natural affinity with animals in general. Just being around them has always made me feel happy and at ease. I’ve had quite a few dogs in my life over the years but the one that always comes to mind the most is my dog JoJo. It may sound silly, but in many ways we were kindred spirits

JoJo was so much more than just a dog…he was my best friend, brother, running partner, therapist…he was family to me. Joey was there by my side for the happiest times in my life and for the saddest times in my life. He knew everything about me…more than any person knows! He always seemed to know when I was feeling down and that just his presence would help to make me feel better. He was the absolute BEST listener! He never judged me and always made me feel important and loved. Even when I was busy with life in general and didn’t pay enough attention, he just waited patiently as if to say, “Don’t worry, I’ll be here for you no matter what…” And he was. Joey enriched my life in ways that I don’t think I will ever be able to put into words. And yet all he asked for in return was some food, water, and a good belly rub now and then. How many people can we say that about? It’s funny…I’ve always said that people need to take after dogs more. They are honest, loyal, kind, loving, non-judgmental…without even trying! Shouldn’t we strive to be more like them?

When Joey died I could not stop crying. Most non-dog people couldn’t understand. It was like losing a part of myself. Who was I going to share my deepest secrets with now that he was gone? I couldn’t imagine letting his death go by without some kind of memorial. He had done so much for me without asking anything in return. So, in celebration of his life, I held a memorial service for Joey at home. The service was attended by my family and a few very close friends. We all gathered at Joey’s favourite spot (my pillow on my bed). During the service we all cried…and laughed at the same time when I reminisced about some of Joey’s past antics – always hiding in the cupboards, and shivering uncontrollably whenever it was cold. I was so happy that I decided to do this for Joey. But part of the reason I held this memorial was purely selfish…I needed a way to help ease the pain I was feeling. Looking around and seeing all the sad faces made me feel less alone. They all loved Joey too and felt his loss…maybe not as deeply as I did, but they felt it just the same.

If you’re feeling the loss of a beloved pet, know that you are not alone. Don’t be embarrassed by your feelings of deep grief, for it is only natural when one has lost a member of their family. And for many of us our dogs are truly members of our families. They are, in fact, so much more than JUST a dog”…

“He is your friend, your partner, your defender, your dog. You are his life, his love, his leader. He will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of his heart. You owe it to him to be worthy of such devotion.” – Author Unknown