August 8, 2001
Six months ago today my husband and I put our beloved dog, Agnes, to sleep. Six months before that she had been diagnosed with kidney failure and during that time we gave her various medications and iv’s. I worried about her suffering and how I would know. Fortunately, Agnes told me in her own way. She stopped eating (and she never missed a meal before that!) and worse—she wouldn’t look at me. I knew she was hurting and the day had come to end her pain.

Our veterinarian was very sympathetic and helpful, and very gentle with Agnes, but I wasn’t prepared for how much it hurt to lose her. I came home knowing that we had done the right thing, but feeling sad and empty. I did a lot of searching on the internet over the next few weeks for sources on dealing with grief. I was so fortunate to discover Enid Samuel Traisman’s site and her wonderful journal for coping with loss. Over and over I read about the importance of memorializing your pet. During this time I also wanted to let some of our friends and family know about Agnes, but I was still too upset to call on the phone so I designed an announcement card to send out to close friends and family. The cards generated wonderful responses that were very comforting to us!

It is my sincere hope that our memorial products may bring you some measure of comfort and healing in your bereavement.