Comfort Care...

...also known as "palliative care", is generally associated with the care given to a terminally ill individual, often in an inpatient or home-based "hospice" setting.  The intention of comfort care is to ease the symptoms and pain associated with the "end of life", rather than prolonging or accelerating this natural process.  The needs of the individual are addressed holistically...physically, emotionally, mentally, energetically and spiritually.  In the same way, the needs of the family, or caregivers, can be supported in order to ease the grief process and upcoming transition.  Although comfort care is generally offered to people, it can be shared with our beloved animal family members, as well.

Dutch...our Angel...

Our dear 12 year old "puppy" began to show signs of aging several years before...he just wasn't as playful with his brother, Bisbee, as in the past and he rose ever-so-slowly onto his shaky paws.  I knew the signs and just did not want to believe that this dreaded time would ever arrive.  Then, when Dutch began having trouble breathing, it was undeniable.  Off to the vet we went...ultrasounds, x-rays, biopsies, blood work...  The diagnosis was unclear: cancer or heart failure. 

Either way, it was clear that we had decisions to make.  For two days we watched and waited..."please give us a clear sign of when you're ready to go", I'd whisper, "we just can't let you go before then..."  That hot August evening, as we were watching TV, Dutch stood in front of the us and began to struggle to breathe.  As I put my hands on his abdomen, I could see his side darkening as the blood began to pool at the biopsy site...looking at his mouth, his gums were beginning to pale.  As I looked into his clear blue eyes, I knew it was time...this was the sign. 

We rushed to the animal hospital at 11:30pm...the light of the Phoenix full moon guided our way.  Within minutes of arrival, we were surrounded by some of the most caring professionals we've ever had the honor to meet.  As she stroked Dutch's fur, the veterinarian explained what was happening and did not offer much hope.  As she left us alone in the room to say our final good-byes, there were tears in her eyes. 

Again, we looked into Dutch's now tired, blue eyes and promised that we would take care of him until the end.  We shared our love and gratitude for so many happy years and then it was time to let our angel go...  

There was no great fear in him - simply a quiet dignity and mutual respect.  Just as my heart began to break as if it would never be complete  again, a sudden calm entered my soul.  I knew that this was not the end, but rather a transition, a new beginning in another world...home.   

Dutch gave me a blessed gift in his crossing. He offered a brief glimpse of the other side, an understanding of what it means to prepare to leave this physical body and the experience of the "end of physical life".  The wisdom & joy of his life are lessons for my life today..."Remember to play each day"..."Nap and stretch when your body tells you to"...“When a loved one comes home, always run to greet them"..."Avoid biting when a little growl will do"..."Listen & be aware of everything in your life"...

Our beloved friends grace us with gifts in life, during, and after crossing. Just as no human being should have to "say good-bye to this earthly home" alone, so it is for our animal friends!  We believe that each family deserves the opportunity of a sacred space where they can prepare for, and grieve, their loved one's transition...  We are honored to assist in this journey.

Sedona just after a Reiki treatment...to her right is a memorial to her brother, Dutch who crossed over in August of 2003...

The Rainbow Bridge

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together.... 

...Author unknown

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