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Hernando Today

Love Them Enough To Let Them Go

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: October 19, 2008

One of the greatest joys of life is the bond we share with our pets.

With this great joy also comes the great pain of saying goodbye.

For many of us nature steps in and our beloved pet departs unassisted.

There are also the difficult times when we are called upon to make the heartbreaking and compassionate decision to end our best friend's suffering.

Life can seem so cruel after a lifetime of such devotion.

The time may come or has come for you to return that precious gift.

While saying goodbye is so heartbreaking for us, it will be your last true measure of devotion to the pet who gave you their all.

The following poem may say it best...

The Last Battle

If it should be that I grow frail and weak,

And pain should keep me from my sleep,

Then will you do what must be done,

For this - the last battle - can't be won.

You will be sad I understand,

But don't let grief then stay your hand,

For on this day, more than the rest,

Your love and friendship must stand the test.

We have had so many happy years,

It is fleeting, this moment of sad tears.

You wouldn't want me to suffer so.

When the time comes, please let me go.

Take me to where to my needs they'll tend,

Only, stay with me until the end,

And hold me firm and speak to me,

Until my eyes no longer see.

I know in time you will agree,

It is a kindness you do for me.

Although my tail its last has waved,

From pain and suffering I have been saved.

Don't grieve that it must be you,

Who has to decide this thing to do;

We've been so close - we two - these years,

Don't let your heart hold any tears.

- Unknown

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