A Lifetime of Love

I remember the first time I had a conversation with an "animal person" who didn't have any animals. This thoughtful and compassionate lady explained how several years ago she had fallen in love with a beautiful dog named Gracie, had nine great years with her and then lost her to kidney disease. The loss was so devastating that she had been unable to open her heart to any other animals. She said, "That day I lost my child." Anyone who has lost a fur-baby can relate to this kind of pain.

Since being involved in rescue, I have never been without more than one animal and have therefore been able to wrap myself in the love of those that are still with me. I could not have survived the grief that has swept through my life over the years (they never stay long enough, do they?) without the comfort of other animals.

Grief can be all-consuming and blind us from the important role that we play in the lives of homeless animals. With countless, beautiful fur-babies languishing in shelters each day, desperate for a human to call their own, they need us to be stronger than our grief. They need us to keep our hearts open as they are relying on us to save their lives.

While a beloved friend is irreplaceable, the human heart has room for more than one beloved friend. And while an animal friend may not be with you for your entire life, they will love you for all of theirs - perfectly and without pause.

An unknown author wrote..."If one has a heart capable of loving an animal then they must - even if it breaks their heart." As animal people, let's continue to help those around us to stay connected to their hearts and remain open to including an animal in their lives.