The most heart-breaking part of owning a pet is how short our time is with them.
The most heart-breaking part of owning a pet is how short our time is with them. Nothing makes us realize this more than spending time with an aging pet. We are suddenly more aware of how every moment counts, and how much they truly feel like family members. I was never made more aware of this than during my recent conversation with Melanie.
She quickly shared, “I moved to River John 9 years ago with my now husband and my dog,” she giggled, “I had my lab, Chevy, before my husband, so we were a package deal.” I asked, “how long has Chevy been part of the family?” She smiled, “I’ve had my dog since I was 21 years old, and I will be 33 this year, and to realize that his time is coming,” she paused a moment, “Just reminds me to take it all in, and cherish the moments I have with him before he’s gone.”
We were both quiet for a moment, then I replied, “That is such a great perspective, and it allows us all to appreciate what we have and live in gratitude, and maybe celebrate what we have and not what we don't have.” She shared, “I don’t have kids, he is my kid, my little boy in a fur coat.” She continued, “He’s still here with me, and I’m going to soak in all the cuddles, all the kisses, and enjoy him because he is the best dog I could have ever asked for. And when it’s his time, he will leave this earth as peacefully as I can possibly make it because, in the end, that’s what he deserves. He’s a good boy.”
I suddenly felt a rush of emotions fill my heart. What a beautiful thing to say. I recently read this quote which I believe sums it up best, “The greatest gift you can give someone is your time. Because when you dedicate your time, you are offering a part of your life that you will never get back.” We couldn’t agree more.