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I thought that I would like to share a wonderful piece of writing from one of my favourite authors, Dean Koontz. He was talking about human relationships, but I think the meaning well applies to all our beloved furry family as well.
"Grief can destroy you - or focus you. You can decide a relationship was all for nothing if it had to end in death, and you alone. Or you can realize that every moment of it had more meaning than you dared to recognize at the time, so much meaning it scared you, so you just lived, just took for granted the love and laughter of each day, and didn't allow yourself to consider the sacredness of it. But when it's over and you're alone, you begin to see it wasn't just a movie and a dinner together, not just scrubbing the floor or washing the dishes together or worrying over a high electric bill. It was everything, it was the why of life, every event and precious moment of it. The answer to the mystery of existence is the love you shared sometimes so imperfectly, and when the loss wakes you to the deeper beauty of it, to the sanctity of it, you can't get off your knees for a long time, you're driven to your knees not by the weight of the loss but by gratitude for what preceded the loss. And the ache is always there, but one day not the emptiness, because to nurture the emptiness, to take solace in it, is to disrespect the gift of life"

I hope that these words will help to give some solace to those who feel there is none.

Love to all those kind strangers who helped me through my pain, and to those who are suffering their own losses.

Anne thank you for this post - it has made me cry, it is so true! I am grieving for the loss of my dear doggie Molly, but this has made me think, and focus on all the lovely times we shared! Thank you Anne xxx

Sandra you are more than welcome. I must admit it made me cry when I first read Mr Koontz's wonderful words. He is an animal lover as well; his beloved dog Trixie who has gone to Rainbow Bridge is normally mentioned in his book dedications. This wonderful site and the great people who post here helped me so much to cope with my losses. I must add that going to meditation on a regular basis has also contributed highly to allowing me to work through grieving. I am very lucky to have a lovely lady to visit to meditate with and she's also a qualified masseuse (amongst other things) at my chiropractor's place. Maybe it could help you too?
Anyway, sending you all the best, and remember, Molly will always be with you in your heart xxx