The Blog

Heeling Project | Dog Loss Memorial Project

 
This submission for the Heeling Project has come all the way from the east coast, in memory of Gracie. I always feel extremely honoured that people are not only willing to participate in this project, but are also completely open in allowing myself and others to read such emotion latent letters. It is like peering into someone’s soul for a brief moment and seeing the sadness that sits quietly there. For me, it is very moving. I think there is some solace taken in knowing that there are others ‘out there’ who are also that connected to their beloved dog, whether that dog is still with us or not – those who understand the significance of old nose prints on the window….

“Love is stronger than death even though it can’t stop death from happening,

but no matter how hard death tries it can’t separate people from love.

It can’t take away our memories either.

In the end, love is stronger than death.”

~ Unknown

Thank you Laurie. Run free Gracie.

The day I had to say goodbye to you was one of the hardest days I have ever experienced. I can still visualize the tear drop I left in your fur. I remember how still you cuddled with me on the chair as if you knew it would be our last time. I don’t know how I ever got the strength to get up and actually walk away from you.

I should have stayed a little longer…

and I should have been there when it was time. I am sorry! As much as I miss you, it is the guilt that remains that hurts the most. When you got sick with Diabetes, I fought so hard to keep you healthy. The whole family did.We were the humans- if you died it was because we failed. We had to be stronger for you, but inevitably it took a year for Diabetes to ware away at you. Did we give up too soon? Could we have bought more time with you? I should have taken you with me when I moved out so we had more time together.

Seeing you on weekends wasn’t enough and it meant that I couldn’t be there the day you left this world. I am sorry! I know Dad held you and talked you through it and told you that you were a good girl. But it should have been me! It was always me and you. Dad knew I wouldn’t have been strong enough and wanted to spare me the pain…and I let him. I should have been braver for you, Gracie. I am so sorry!

I miss you so much.

You had such a personality and were so expressive, loving, and even nurturing. You always made me laugh and smile. I miss your bark, the touch of your fur, the tap at your dish when it was supper time, and how you loved to dig in the snow. It’s snowing now, Gracie.

I am so lucky to have had you and that you were my dog. We had that special bond and connection and I am so proud of that. I could never say enough about our 10 years together, nor could I fully explain how much I love and miss you. I truly lost my best friend. It doesn’t make sense to me that you’re not in this world anymore…but what will always remain are my memories and devotion to you, forever.
 
Love, your human,
Laurie
 

 
 
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Other services available:
Pet condolence card line (Heeling Cards™) in the SHOP above.
Heeling Session page for dog bereavement photography services.