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Animal passage into spirit
by Nedda Wittels
 Can
we really help an animal friend prepare for departure? Is saying
goodbye any easier for us when
we know what the animal wants?
The
first animal I remember losing as a child was my reddish-orange cat I
had named
Tiger. I was 11 years old. Tiger had stripes
and a serene, Buddha-like nature. He let me dress him in
doll's clothes and push him in my doll carriage. He spent
afternoons stretched out on my bed while I did my homework.
My
parents found his body lying on the road near our driveway, buried it,
and after telling me they had done so, never spoke about it again.
I cried until I just couldn't cry any more. I never had a chance
to say goodbye and I still miss him today.
As
a "pet psychic", I am often called upon to speak with animals
who are ill, who are preparing to leave their bodies, or who have
already passed into spirit. For the most part, animals do not fear
death. Most are comfortable talking about it. Many remember
what it is like to be in spirit form.
When
an animal is very sick or dying, it is definitely appropriate to raise
this subject with them. It helps both of you to share your
thoughts and feelings as you prepare together for the animal's
transition. Here are some things people want to talk about with
their seriously ill animals..
When
they are, their spirit guides are usually helping them get ready.
However, if they are clinging to life in a body that is rapidly
deteriorating, talking to them about this can help ease the process for
them, especially if you are able to let them know that it is OK with for
your them to go.
If you are not comfortable with having the animal die on his own because
you are
worried about pain or not being home at the right time, we can explore
how to handle things. If euthanasia is preferred, it is wise to
discuss with your veterinarian just how you would like this to be
handled and to find out about their policies and availability.
Then explain it to the animal. Preparing in advance is to
everyone's benefit.
If
the animal says they want euthanasia, but not yet, it is possible to set
up a signal between you. Sometimes clients as me to check in
with the animal from time to time so that the person is sure when the
animal is ready to leave.
Most animals want you to do whatever you feel comfortable doing with
their physical form. Others have specific preferences. One
cat wanted to be buried at sea. Another wanted to be buried in the
garden to feed the flowers. Another preferred cremation.
Closure between you and your friend is important. Often they will
thank you for all you have done for them during their illness and/or
your lives together. Almost always, they tell you how much they
love you. It is healing for both of you to be able to say
"Goodbye".
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