I feel for all of you and your loss of faithful friends. You may like to search for my older posts about "Rainbow Bridge" and it may bring you some comfort. I've shared the heartache with many of you.
Every pet I've ever owned is still with me in my heart - from the grey cat I had as a child that I put in my doll's pram and walked with the other little girls who had dollies up the street. That cat lay there with a little miniature doll tucked under its paw under a blanket and enjoyed his daily walks. The next cat "Butch" lived until 18 years old. He was bought to me in a friend's pocket as a kitten. He liked to join mum and me for breakfast in bed on a Saturday morning.
Then our dogs. Honey, the cross spaniel who was poisoned and died a horrible death. Bo, the Dalmatian who died of heart failure at 8 years old - a surprise to us as she was a very strong dog. She "pointed" as some Dallies do and loved us to distraction. Always wanted to climb on my knee.
Then our most beloved Ming, a cross Shih Tzu Mini Fox He protected me, comforted me, knew every word I said. But most importantly he was NOT a lapdog. He followed my husband everywhere and adored him. Ming was 17 when we lost him to ill health. His companion, Lizzie, we lost just recently and she was nearly 14. Loyal, loving, Lizzie. I reckon they'll all be there on Rainbow Bridge waiting for us - or that's what I'd like to believe.
Forever in our hearts
Kate and the Laird (long-standing members will know who the Laird is).