Four timely reminders for pet parents

My dog says he's passing on some important reminders to all the pet parents out there. The reason for this topic is because our family lost our smallest member this week. Scarlet was a four-pound chihuahua, rescued from the Los Angeles city shelter. On Sunday, she passed away unexpectedly. One minute she was fine, a few hours later she was dead.

So, as a family grieving over the loss of someone special, we pass on these reminders to all those who have a special animal in their lives: 

1) Take lots of pictures of your companion animals. In this day and age of digital cameras, it's easy and cheap, so be sure to snap pictures every week or month. You will never regret having too many photos, but you will always regret not having enough once your loved one has left this Earth.

Scarlet's first week with us in her new home

2) If you don't have some sort of video capturing device, get one--and use it. Scarlet used to prance around with such joy and grace and there is no video of her. This is something that saddens our family. Take lots of video of your furbabies. This will help keep your memories alive.

Scarlet at the Halloween parade

3) Tell your dog/cat/bunny/guinea pig/bird every day how much you love them. Give them kisses, hugs, pets, and show them that you care. Life can change in an instance and any moment could be the last time you are with your furry or feathered companion animal.  Always make sure they know they're loved. 

Scarlet celebrating Christmas in her Santa outfit

4) This is an extension of #3, but a wee bit different. Make time. It's so easy to get keyed up from a hectic day and bring that tension home with you. It's easy to be distracted with all the responsibilities nagging at you. But, be sure to make time each day for quality bonding with your animal family (and give them ample opportunity to enjoy the things they love: walks, sunbathing, etc.). Your pets are great listeners and stress relievers. Don't get so caught up with other things that you take their presence for granted. 

Now, go tell your furchildren how much they mean to you while they're still here. All we have left of Scarlet is memories. She stole our hearts and took them with her when she died.

8 comments:

  1. OH, Amber~!! I am SOOO SORRY~!!! I had no idea you lost a furbaby Sunday~!! I can't imagine what you're going through. I was missing you and for some reason, thought about you when Gina @SuuperG posted that their doggie had passed away.
    I was thinking you two should be friends if you're not already - that Gina would find a lot of comfort from this blog and you would really like her blog, too. Now, you have far too much in common...
    You should know that these pictures are very animated and Scarlet's personality shines through! Your reminders are very welcome and with two daughter-dogs aged 14 1/2, I better get into gear. I keep hoping that crying over your dog and Gina's will someone prepare me..but I know that is illogical in the end. I'm here for you if you need me. Please don't hesitate to reach out. I'm ModelSupplies on Skype, too. Love & ((((HUGS)))) to you and your family during this difficult time...
    x0x
    Anita @ModelSupplies

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  2. Big, comforting, sobbing-on-your-shoulder hugs...Oh my gosh, Amber, you were referred to me by Anita @ModelSupplies on Twitter...and now I see painfully clearly why. I am so sorry you're going through what I am in the recent loss of your precious, joyful and graceful girl. It hurts more to love more...but I can't help but still be convinced it's worth it. Wishing you healing and the comfort of Scarlet's everlasting love and presence in your hearts. Bliss you. Gina

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  3. I am so sorry you lost a furbaby :(

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  4. Amber, I want to say again how sorry I am for your loss. I also want to thank you for the reminders. Phoebe is sixteen, and she absolutely loves to go out and lie in the sun, but sometimes I'm in a hurry and don't give her enough time. You have reminded me how important it is to make time. It is a matter of priorities, and the kids definitely are top priority.

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  5. I'm so sorry for your loss. I know only too well that words aren't much comfort when one experiences a loss this profound. You took in a precious furbaby, loved her and nurturered her and placed yourself in a position where one day she might be gone. We all do that when we have furbabies, don't we? We just hope we can find a way to get through the pain of loss. Somehow we do -- as there isn't much alternative. I hope you know that I think you are wonderful. I admire you so much. There are special places in heaven for heroes such as you. You're MY hero. Bless your heart and Scarlet's.

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  6. Amber, our hearts are with you. All of us who have loved and lost feel your pain with you, and know there are no real words of comfort. Sending loving thoughts your way.
    oxxoxoxo
    E

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  7. Dearest Amber, I am so sorry your heart is hurting. Bless you for making a difference. Sending lots of love and comfort to you during this painful time.

    @LaurieHosken

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  8. My dog says...

    Thank you ALL for your very kind words of support. Scarlet was something special. She filled our lives with happiness on even the darkest days. Her presence in our lives was magical and she made life joyous. Life just isn't nearly as good without her in it.

    -Puddy and Family

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