Yesterday was a very sad day at the Rouse household because our great friend Mr. Pooh passed away. Pooh was a lot more to us than just a pet, he was truly a beloved member of the family. Of course like all cats, he was a finicky fellow, at times acting aloof and dis-interested in everything that was going on around him while at other times he would insert himself into the situation as if he were the center of the universe. But through it all, he was a kind, loving soul.
When Cheria and I would sit down to enjoy a meal at the dinner table, he would always climb up onto the bench and sit between us, making sure that we had a little feline company as we dined. And whenever Cheria was sick on the couch he would always climb up onto her belly and just lie there as she mended, purring that gentle, soft purr of his as if it could work some kind of magic and make her ailment go away. And who’s to say that his special “tonic” didn’t work? After all, she always seemed to feel a little better after he came onto the scene.
A few days ago Mr. Pooh began feeling poorly himself. He stopped eating and drinking, and in no time he had lost so much weight that we could feel virtually every bone in his body as we petted him. We took him to the vet, but the news wasn’t good. In all likelihood his kidneys were failing, and we were pretty much told to resign ourselves to the fact that he wouldn’t be with us much longer. And so it was…
The doc called us yesterday morning with the sad news that the treatments he had given Mr. Pooh over the course of the weekend hadn’t helped. After the better part of a decade of mutual love and respect, he was gone.
I’ve often heard it said that pets are “part of the family”, and in Pooh’s case that was so true. He was a great cat and a wonderful friend, and he will be sorely missed. We love you Mr. Pooh.
I am so sorry for your loss, Rick and Cheria. We have our own feline family member with whom we share our home. As you know, it’s not really accurate to call them a pet. They are so much more than that, and an unending source of unconditional love and affection. Our friend Pookie is pushing 15 and still going strong, but I know he won’t be here forever. I dread the day we have to say good-bye, and am truly sorry for your loss. The picture and commentary are a fitting tribute to a treasured friend’s memory.
I’m very sorry for your loss. Mr. Pooh was a beautiful cat and I’m sure he was a great friend indeed.
This is a very nice memorial of a beloved companion.
Beautiful and touching. He will be missed.
Very moving photo and story Mr. Rouse. I’m so sorry for your loss.
Rick and Cheria,
I’m so sorry to hear about Mr. Pooh. I know he will be truly missed. My cat Kiahleah aka The Queen, is twelve now, and I know it would break my heart if something were to happen to her. You both will be in my prayers.
Mary
Me too!!!
My condolences on the loss of Pooh. These things are pretty tough.
So sorry for the loss of Mr. Pooh, Rick and Cheria. Losing a pet is like losing a very dear friend. We have 3 kitties that let us live with them and just last month we lost one of our toms to something that killed him while he was outside for some fresh air. We’ve had cats all our married lives and three that lived to be 19 yrs old. A couple of years ago we had Elliot that was aboutthe age of Mr. Pooh and he got sick just like your kitty did. Losing him was almost unbearable because he was always there when things weren’t so good to lend his purr and cuddles. I often wonder why we set ourselves up for this heartache when we lose one but then they give us such unconditional love – who doesn’t want that? Beautiful tribute to Mr. Pooh.
I’m very sorry to hear of your loss Rick. God’s most gentle and friendly animals, the one’s we most often take as pets (family members really) insure that no man or woman must walk alone or feel lonely. They allow us to find and express emotions that might stay hidden forever if not for their kind and patient devotion. They are such an important part of our lives and we are surely saddened to see them go. Rest in peace Mr. Pooh. “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened,” Dr. Seuss.
I too am very sorry for your loss Rick and Cheria!! In our home, our pets and not merely pets, they are very much family and it hurts so bad when one is lost. I know the hurt and only time will help to relieve it. Thankfully, they leave us with many happy memories!!
Take care and you are both in my prayers also!
Ron
Rick and Cheria I am so sorry for your loss. Mr. Pooh was a handsome fella. I love those beautiful emerald eyes. That was a sweet and touching tribute and I am sure that you could write a book about Mr. Pooh. It will take time for your hearts to mend now that your little companion is no longer with you. I know about the void that is left when they pass on. My little Lucky left me 4 years ago and tears still flow when he crosses my mind. Shadow Man,my beautiful big grey cat will be 16 years old on April first and he has big bright eyes like Mr. Pooh. I know that soon he will be gone from my sight just like Lucky and just like Lucky he will never be gone from my heart. I hope all your wonderful memories of Mr. Pooh will give you some comfort as you adjust to his leaving.
Rick and Cheria, I’m so sorry. Mr. Pooh looks very lovable. Pets enrich our lives beyond words. Rest in your fond memories.
I’m sorry for your loss Rick and Cheria. As you both know I am a big animal lover and it hurts to lose one. Mr. Pooh looked so sweet. You can rest assure he has crossed the rainbow bridge waiting for you.
Thanks everyone…Pooh was something else for sure. If ya want to read more about his life go to my blog http://www.cheriaschatter.com and you will probably laugh and cry at the same time.