molly.com
Tuesday 22 August 2006
Flowers for Tara, Best Friend of My Life
As many readers and friends here know, I’ve been accompanied on life’s journey for nearly 18 years by an incredibly sassy, smart and tenacious kitty, Tara. And, as many readers also know, she was diagnosed with a terminal disease of the kidneys way back some 17 months ago now.
She was very sick at the time, and the vet said “we can help her go now” and something told me that it just wasn’t time. And boy, I sure know this kitty. She not only improved but has lived the last 17 months, for the most part, in comfort and style with only an adjustment to her diet. The vets were astonished, but having known her ferocity and tenacity all those years, I sure wasn’t.
Well, my friends, the time has come. Tara has deteriorated so much that while she is still sentient, she cannot lift her body at all, is refusing all food and water. She can’t move much, but she’s still there, and she’s not in terrible pain.
At 4:30 PM Arizona time, the vet is coming to the house. When he leaves, he will leave with Tara’s body, but I know something, even in these difficult times when I personally am struggling with issues of faith, hope, and spirituality.
I know this: Tara’s spirit will never leave my heart and being. She’s had a hell of a great life, and I have had a great life with her.
My best friend, ever companion, always soul and heartmate: I am logging off now to spend the last of your hours holding and speaking with you as you make this final mortal passage.
Readers, your good thoughts for peace for my best friend, who saved my life at least one time and if I am worth anything today to you, for you, I just ask you think a good thought for her today, and maybe one for me too, because this is just so damned difficult and so damned sad despite all the intellectualizing I can put to it.
Tara, you are my best friend always, I love you, and let this entry allow the world to know how beautiful a soul you are. And how blessed I have been to have had the honor of spending so many years with you.
Filed under: faith(less)
Posted by: Molly | 1:24 pm |
August 22nd, 2006 at 1:29 pm
Losing a beloved animal friend is very difficult. You have my condolences.
August 22nd, 2006 at 1:42 pm
I don’t know where I’d be without Ziggy sitting on my laptop and forcing me to have a break. If I lost my cat I’d be distraught, but so glad he’d been there and given me so many laughs and memories.
I’ll spare a though for Tara today…
August 22nd, 2006 at 1:44 pm
It’s a bastard. I cried like a baby when my cat, Guinness, had to be put down due to catflu. Hang in there.
August 22nd, 2006 at 1:46 pm
Molly,
I am sorry to hear about the loss. Though I have a dog instead of a cat - the same is true about what Colly said. I dont know what I would do without the dog sitting on my lap or wanting to play. I never thought I could get so attached to an animal as I have with my dog.
God Bless,
nate
August 22nd, 2006 at 1:51 pm
Such a special bond indeed…losing a pet is never easy, but one you’ve known and cherish for as long as 18 years is a very big deal. You and Tara have my thoughts and best wishes Molly.
I’d give you a great big hug if I was there right now!
August 22nd, 2006 at 1:54 pm
Tara and all the other pets of our world remind us of the perpetual cycle of life and the joy that living brings to us all. I share my tears with you.
August 22nd, 2006 at 2:05 pm
{ hugs } Such a hard thing … sorry, Molly.
August 22nd, 2006 at 2:19 pm
(( hugs )) and well wishes. losing a pet is always heart-wrenching. but she won’t suffer anymore. and you will always have her love in spirit.
August 22nd, 2006 at 3:26 pm
Molly-
I feel for you and know exactly what you’re going through. I had my best buddy, Max, for 17 years - the last 5 of those giving him twice daily shots for diabetes. He was the sweetest, most outgoing, funny and sensitive little guy. We knew each other so well. The diabetes finally got the best of his organs and he started failing. He too could not move or eat the last day and I had to take him in to the vet for “the shot”. It was the worst day of my life. I had nightmares for a few months, but slowly began to be able to remember all the happy times. That was 1 year and 5 months ago. I know I was the best mom he ever could have had - and I’m sure you were that person for Tara. My thoughts are with you. Take care-
August 22nd, 2006 at 3:29 pm
If it was mutually understood she wasn’t ready before, the same is probably true that she is ready now. And it’s likely very comforting for her to have you there. If my dog was any indication, animals show a great sense of dignity and grace in their final hours.
Heartfelt condolences to you, Molly.
August 22nd, 2006 at 3:47 pm
Oh Molly. I am so sorry. Tara will be sadly missed. 18 years on this earth for a Cat is amazing! You are very lucky to have shared such an awesome relationship! 18 years… wow.
Ayla and Bella are weeping. Ayla is on my lap at the moment and I read her your post. She cannot wait to cheer you up the next time you are in town. Bella is napping somewhere so I will tell her later.
You know we love you for life! I am here if you need a shoulder to lean on.
Take care, Molly.
August 22nd, 2006 at 3:50 pm
Molly,
I’m so sorry that it’s now time to say goodbye to Tara, but as I know you know, you’ll live with her love every day, and I’m sure you’ll see her again one day.
I’m going to go spend some time with my kitty, Punky, and I’m going to tell her all about you and Tara. Maybe when she naps later, she’ll dream of Tara, and the two of them can chase birds together.
Love and hugs
-k
August 22nd, 2006 at 3:51 pm
Molly,
I too will spare a thought for Tara. Losing such a dear companion is truly one of life’s hardest things to deal with.
As my family and I start to come to terms with the possibility that one of our four babies is coming to that point, we give her all the love and care she needs.
Being with Tara is the best thing you could do.
(((huggles))) to you
August 22nd, 2006 at 4:05 pm
Tara: Sail westward to the Isles of the Blessed, with fond memories of Molly. {{{gentle strokes}}}
Molly: May Tara’s memory be for a blessing. {{{BIG, WARM HUGS}}}
August 22nd, 2006 at 4:23 pm
Our animals sometimes think of us as the best hunters (when we feed them)and the worst when we forget to. They give us so much comfort and add to our awareness of life. I am sorry for your loss and empathize with it.
c
August 22nd, 2006 at 4:28 pm
Oh Molly, my condolences.
August 22nd, 2006 at 4:59 pm
Molly…
I can only echo what everyone else has said… my heart goes out to you. I had to take our longtime dog Kendal to the vet under similar circumstances just barely eight years ago… the memory of holding her while the vet did what was necessary still brings a lump to my throat and a tear to my eye. My only consolation was that as hard as it was for me, it was the best thing for her given her rapidly deteriorating condition. Mostly, I remember all the good times with her, as you will remember your long relationship with Tara.
- DeW
August 22nd, 2006 at 6:41 pm
I am very, very sorry to read this, Molly.
August 22nd, 2006 at 8:19 pm
This seemed oddly appropriate:
August 22nd, 2006 at 9:37 pm
I am very sorry for your loss. I have two cats, one of whom is elderly and will take expensive medication for the rest of her life. But I am happy to do it because she is a loved family member and you would always help family. The grieving for a pet is very real and is painful. I hope you have someone to talk to work through this. Stay strong.
August 22nd, 2006 at 10:26 pm
Molly, I’m so sorry to hear that. Some people cannot understand how much you can love those non-human companions in life. They’re the ones who think that you “own a pet”.
I’m dreading the day when I’ll be in this situation, but hopefully it will be a long time ’til then. My furry friends are 6 and 1.
August 23rd, 2006 at 1:34 am
Im very sorry for your loss Molly
*Hugs to molly*
August 23rd, 2006 at 1:36 am
Thinking of you both xx
August 23rd, 2006 at 2:35 am
(( hugs ))
Glad that when the end came, you were ready for it and accepting. Sounds like she had a good long life.
Thinking of you
Meri & Elly & our Tara
August 23rd, 2006 at 3:18 am
Thats a normal lifespan, and i’m sure you made it a happy one.
August 23rd, 2006 at 3:19 am
Molly:
as an only child with a cat, I often thought of him as my older brother (okay, maybe he was adopted). He died when I was 15 (him aged 17), and now some 16 years later I still get a lump in my throat when I think of him, even though now we’ve got two enormous semi-male *snip* cats demanding attention. I have loads of fond memories of him and stories of him. Part of me still thinks he’s around somewhere though because I showed a photo of him to my two year old and said “this used to be Daddy’s cat”, and he said, “That’s Tiger”. Which, sure enough was his name, and I don’t think anyone else had shown him a photo of the cat before.
He was always good at making friends with other cats - often bringing them in and showing them where his food was (although I think this was because most of our neighbours fed him), so you just tell Tara if she’s lost to look out for Tiger. I’m sure he’ll show her around.
August 23rd, 2006 at 3:41 am
Molly,
I am very saddened to read of Tara’s passing. I offer you my deepest sympathies. I realize there is nothing I can do or say that will take away the pain, but I will offer this… I am absolutely positive that Tara knew exactly how much she was loved by you and was given the greatest gift of your love and devotion to her. To know that one is loved by another is indeed something that everyone wants. You showed her how much you loved her by staying with her when her days were the darkest and she did the same for you. I would say that you shared a very special bond. I pray that God will touch your heart and ease your pain over your loss. I also pray that He is watching over her right now and smiling because the pain she felt is no longer there (except the pain of seeing you grieving). I also hope that your pain will turn into celebration for the life of Tara, for even though you have lost her in this world, she will always live on in you and never be far away. Live on in honor of Tara. If you need anything, you know where to find me.
Love and prayers,
Jo
August 23rd, 2006 at 4:51 am
The important thing is she had a great live together whit you. Not all of us on this planet are so lucky.
Sadly, there is nothing we can do about death. It appears to be just part of life itself.
Give her a kiss from me and I know this is the right decission molly. You are blessed with such a long living cat.
August 23rd, 2006 at 7:23 am
Molly,
I am so sorry about your best friend, Tara. But I am glad that you had 18 wonderful years with her. My miniature dachshund, Molly, turned 3 years old on Monday, 8/21. As a small dog, she has a much longer lifespan than larger dogs, so I’m hoping for a good 18 years with her, as well. I teared up when I read your blog entry just now, and thinking of that eventual time with Molly is unbearable, so I try not to think of it.
Bless you and Tara
August 23rd, 2006 at 9:37 am
I, too, have buried pets that I loved deeply. I grieve with you, Molly. Tonight I will say the Kaddish for you upon the loss of your beloved friend and companion:
“He who creates peace in His celestial heights, may He create peace for us and for all Israel; and say, Amen.”
May He bring you peace, Molly.
August 23rd, 2006 at 11:03 am
I’m so sorry to hear about your little cat. I know how you feel, I had a golden retriever for 13 years from being a puppy until he passed away. Remember the time you had with her and how full both your lives were together.
August 23rd, 2006 at 11:40 am
Lights a candle for Tara, as you have done for Moose. I’m so sorry.
August 23rd, 2006 at 12:27 pm
Molly,
My thoughts are with you and Tara. I faced the same situation 3 years ago. Not a day goes by that I don’t think of him, although the pain eases with time.
Rest assured that Black (my dog) will be waiting in “Pet Heaven” to welcome Tara.
Love,
Pedro
August 23rd, 2006 at 1:57 pm
I hope you’re able to find comfort in the memories of the many years you were able to share together. I’m sorry for your pain.
August 23rd, 2006 at 3:20 pm
Every animal I have ever lost has stayed with me all my life. Our last dog to die I always feel is with me still despite having 2 more dogs now. Each life is precious and animals stay with you along your journey. Take her into your heart as she goes and she will never leave you. The pain goes slowly but they never leave you. Every animal is different and yes, I have had other dogs after the ones past - but none ever replaces they are just themselves and take up a whole new place in your heart and life. My thoughts are with you at this time.
August 23rd, 2006 at 7:11 pm
::::HUGS:::: Sorry to hear about Tara.
::::Hugs::::
August 23rd, 2006 at 11:40 pm
Molly, your cat was special. Your next cat will not be a replacement, but will be even more special in its own way - it’s all part of the cycle of life.
August 24th, 2006 at 12:57 am
My thoughts are with you and Tara, take care Molly.
August 24th, 2006 at 2:50 am
Molly, that’s so sad. I’m a cat-lover too so I can completely sympathise. Best wishes and fond thoughts.
August 24th, 2006 at 3:15 am
Rest-in-peace, Tara.
Best wishes to you Molly.
August 24th, 2006 at 9:23 pm
Grace to you, Molly, in your time of loss…
—-
All the vict’ries of our lives mean nothing
In a time of pain and loss
May your soul find peace in knowing
Love so dear is worth the cost.
In your grieving, there is solice
And a healing for your heart,
For a season, grieve for Tara,
Don’t let this tear you apart.
You, dear Molly, are in friendship
With so many ‘cross this earth
In your mourning, please remember:
You are loved and have much worth!
—
All will be well, in time…
–Russ
August 25th, 2006 at 2:10 am
Tara is probably chasing a butterfly in heaven right now. My heart goes out to you.
August 25th, 2006 at 8:09 am
We are so lucky to have had these cats (and for some of us, dogs also) in our lives. Two years ago this week I lost my Meg (Meggie) to lymphoma and feluke. She was, like your Tara, a fighter to the end. Working with the vet we gave her another ten months until t ebcasme clear, like your Tara - that it was time. I had a connection with Meggie like no other pet, despite having had many dogs in my life and three other cats at the same time. Meg had been a stray and really appreciated her home with us. We brought her (and her six kittens) in from the cold. Six months later, we lost our much loved and very special dog Sagan at 17 years of age. Sagan had been with me through many phases of my life over the course of her 17 years.
We carry on with our three remaining cats (Underdog, who has diabetes); Shakes(peare); and Ceilidh The Calico Cat and our new addition - Tess, a very wired border collie puppy. Despite the fact that we have a busy pet household, Meg and Sagan are always with us.
You are lucky to have had a cat that you call your best friend. Tara will always be with you.
August 25th, 2006 at 10:43 am
Molly,
I’m so sorry to hear about Tara’s passing. I thought a good thought for both you and Tara.
Best Wishes,
Roger
August 25th, 2006 at 12:36 pm
I had to put my cat down three weeks ago, it was the hardest decision of my life. Take care, and know that you gave her the best life and companionship she could have had.
August 25th, 2006 at 2:00 pm
I had never seen my father cry until the day our family dog had to be put down. I know what it must feel like, I wish you lots of strength Molly.
August 25th, 2006 at 5:20 pm
Sorry to hear about your loss. In January I lost my cat, Budweiser (II), to cancer. He was 18 also. I had adopted him in Mesa, AZ because he looked like Budweiser I. He traveled to Washington State and Denver, CO with me. He was my TV buddy. He even got to move into my husband’s place, before I did, because my apartment did not allow cats. I hope that you allow a reasonable time for grieving and then find another furry friend. Our new cat, Wendy, has reminded us just how Psycho that young cats can be. It reminds me of Bud when he was younger. May Tara rest in peace.
August 25th, 2006 at 10:12 pm
Molly, I am so very sorry to hear about your loss. I hope you are doing okay. I just went through a very similar thing 2 months ago with my cat and best friend, Shiki. She was also diagnosed with kidney problems about a year earlier and the past year felt like special bonus time. I have thoughts of peace for both you and Tara. It is true that her spirit will live in your heart forever, as I’m sure yours did in her.
August 26th, 2006 at 8:48 pm
How sad, Molly… and I’m so sorry to hear about this as I understand what you went thru. I had to put my 19 yo cat Cecilia down from CRF - chronic renal failure - basically her kidneys were slowly dying, and this went on for 3 years. It’s so darn difficult when they’re happy one month, knocking on deaths door the next.
My thoughts are with you as you remember your dear friend Tara.
ellen
August 27th, 2006 at 5:14 pm
I am sad to hear that the days has come for you, Molly, that all pet owners dread. My thoughts are with you and your dear friend.
Unfortunately, the only way to avoid the pain of a pet’s death is to have never enjoyed or loved the pet in the first place. I for one would never make that trade!
God bless you and Tara.
August 27th, 2006 at 5:42 pm
I hope when you find all those whiskers and fur in the years to come that you remember her as she was for the first 17 years, not the last few hours. Shedding a tear, may she have all that she desires in the pussy cat afterlife.
Peace and happiness
Angie (and tribble)
August 28th, 2006 at 12:51 pm
Molly: I’m so sorry to hear that you’ve lost Tara. I had to put Sammy, my wonderful yellow lab, down a year ago, just after his 13th birthday. A day hasn’t gone by when I haven’t thought of him and what a good and gentle soul he was. And the other morning, on the anniversary of the day I put him down, he paid me and Benny, my puppy, a visit. There, all of a sudden, was a big yellow angel in the room with us. You’ll see, you’ll feel Tara all around you.
But yeah, it’s the saddest damn thing there is.
August 29th, 2006 at 8:03 am
Molly, I’m sorry. Been there too often. Rejoice in the wonderful life you gave her and the joy she brought you. I wish you peace.
August 30th, 2006 at 5:16 am
Hello, I’m Katy and I have seen your site. Great
How has you been enough time to made this?? Thank you and congrats!
September 5th, 2006 at 12:22 am
I found you site searching for one dealing with the loss of my cat. I cannot say how much your story of your cat as well as all of the wonderful responses has also helped me. My Ashely was with me for almost 16 years and I could not have asked for a better friend. We found out she had bone cancer about a month ago and it wasn’t until yesterday that she was truly suffering and I had to let her go.
So, thank you again for your story—it really helped.
October 5th, 2006 at 5:14 am
Molly,
I have a solid black siamese who is 15 years old and she is going downhill with kidney problems.We are having an ultrasound done today to see if there is anything we can do.She has been my best friend for 15 years and it is breaking my heart watching her like this.I may not be coming home with my baby today but i know her memory will live on.
November 6th, 2006 at 10:49 pm
Molly,
I was going through your archives when I came upon this sad news. Myself, Ruby my dog and Nuni my cat feel for you and your loss. Her kitty spirit looks down to you and is always there.
December 27th, 2006 at 3:21 am
Happiness comes from relationships
beit human or otherwise. Society
has pets. My friend Mr.Nicky enjoyed over 20 years in his position. The last few years were hard on us both. Reading the posts on your site gives me the insight to understand my sorrow however insurmountable. Thank you Molly and thank you Tara.
Mr. Nicky was a orange and white tabby His was a record of excellence. He lived 25 years.
I learned many things from him.
Cat lovers are in a class all their own. marraoow
January 10th, 2007 at 2:42 pm
i was reading this for the first time and i started to cry because i had to put my ferret down 6 months ago. about 3 months after my grandma died. it was horrible.. i was crying myself to sleep half the time because i missed both of them soo much. blanca, my ferret, was about 8 years old. she was doing fine but one day she wasnt getting up to eat or drink. we picked her up and she had feces on her fur because she was so weak. i gave her a bath and then fed her by hand and she had no problem with eating. but she was shaking so my dad and i took her to the vet. she took her in and layed her in a blanket. they took her temperature and they found out that her temperature was about 10 degrees below normal. they said that because her temperature was falling so fast that we had to put her to sleep. the thought of that just made me burst in tears. it was horrible. so we put her to sleep. so we put her to sleep and had her cremated. and they kindly asked me if i wanted to keep the ashes and i said no cause first of all, there was no place to put it where it wouldnt get broken and 2, i couldnt stand looking at the vase everyday and start to cry. so we didnt keep the ashes. its hard for me still because i now remember how specail she was to me and how much i loved her. and this was really hard for me cause im only 14.
February 27th, 2007 at 11:29 am
ticket
?????????¦???????
March 6th, 2007 at 8:58 pm
Molly,
I am so sorry about Tara. It was 1 year ago today, at this hour, that I had to put my precious Token to sleep. I held him in my arms as they put the needle into him. It was the HARDEST thing I have EVER done in my life. It is one year ago today, and I still look for him, to come around the corner, or jump into my bed. I still remember every second of that horrible minute of my life, I just kept looking at him, telling him that Mommy loves him and I will see him someday. It hurts me every time that I think of it, and now it is the one year anniversary of Token’s death and I still can’t over it and I know I NEVER WILL. I am so sorry that you have to go through that, but I do belive, that SOMEDAY I will see my precious Token again! You are in my prayers!
January 16th, 2008 at 7:44 am
thx
January 31st, 2008 at 9:40 pm
Those who choose to take the “slights and disappointments” path, meanwhile, are very generously compensated for their trouble
March 18th, 2008 at 8:04 am
Just lost my dog named tara this past weekend. She wss 17 yrs old and all I did was cry the past 3 days..great memories..she was my baby…
March 30th, 2008 at 10:29 am
thanks
March 31st, 2008 at 6:12 pm
thanks
May 28th, 2008 at 12:05 pm
thankyou ..
June 8th, 2008 at 12:36 am
thanks
June 8th, 2008 at 12:36 am
thank you
June 8th, 2008 at 8:23 am
thanks you.good site and news.
June 8th, 2008 at 8:23 am
thanks you.good site and news.
July 3rd, 2008 at 8:15 pm
Just found your site. Wonder if you got another kitty?
It brings back memories of when I lost my pup