Goodbye Petey

[RoyGBiv]

This is Petey, styling his favorite shoes.

I'm taking him now to be put to sleep. Feline leukemia came on suddenly, despite his having been vacinated. The vet said he probably contracted it shortly before I got him, and the tests missed it.

Petey was my world. And now he's gone.

[flamingyouth]

1. I'm so sorry

:( :hug:

[ikojo]

2. So long, Petey and peaceful journey

over the rainbow bridge.

Share some Petey stories and pics if you so desire.

So sorry you need to do this.

[RoyGBiv]

24. Thanks ...

This was the hardest thing I have ever done in my life. Ever, and I was the one that signed the DNR order on my grandmother. She'd lived a long life, had told me she was tired and ready to go before she fell into the coma, and we had had a long time to say goodbye.

Petey was a special boy, as they all are I know, but he was special to me in a special way. I've had several pets before, but I had not had one in many years. Petey came into my life as a stray who quite clearly adopted me, rather than the other way around. I was going through a very rough time, was unemployed, had no job prospects, and was looking at moving across the country to stay with a friend just to survive when he showed up. In short, I had no business acquiring another mouth to feed, but he was insistent. Within a month, I had a new job, and everything turned around for me. He was always here, always greeting me at the door, always kissing me goodnight and keeping me warm when it was cold.

He had an abandonment complex. By happenstance, I learned some of his history from a neighbor who had fed him for awhile. She remembered the day he showed up and knew from his behavior he had been dropped off by someone who didn't want him. She tried to take him in, but her husband wouldn't let her, which meant he'd had two people pretend to care about him and then leave him on his own. He showed back up one day, having been in a serious fight (probably how he got the leukemia) and was half starved and half dead, but he could still talk and loudly. He let me know, he wanted to be friends.

So we became friends, but whenever I'd leave the house, he'd look scared. Over time he got better, but I took a couple extended trips, leaving him with family members, and they told me he was always unhappy while I was gone. When I was around, he was constantly chipper, playing, talking to me, helping me type and make dinner. Two weeks ago I took a vacation with my mother and daughter and decided just to take him along this time after finding hotels that would allow his presence. We had a good time together, and he relaxed along with me. I'm so thankful now I shared that week with him because if I hadn't, I don't know if I could forgive myself for making one of his last two weeks on earth so filled with anxiety.

He had that same look of fear when I left him today, and I'll never get that out of my head. I told him I was sorry and that I loved him and that I would meet him again someday. Just wait for me, Petey, and I'll bring your favorite mouse.

I can't write anymore. This hurts too much. But thanks for letting me do this. Thanks to everyone for the kind words.

[Radio_Lady]

27. Roy, I have tears in my eyes for you and Petey tonight.

Although I don't know you at all, nor did I know Petey, I can sympathize with you completely.

For Petey, and the ones we have lost: Bambi, Dolly, Ralphie, Toby, Danny, Smudgy Face (!), Buffy, Spice, Gardenia, and Cleopatra -- forgive me if I left out other names of our other sweet pets.

I say your names and burn candles of remembrance.

[Flaxbee]

31. I'm so sorry. I'm so, so sorry.

It sounds like you love him a great deal, and I am sure he knew it.

There are so many Peteys out there... not to replace him, but other special creatures who need help. Maybe when it stops hurting so much, you can find one (or one will find you).

I have 7 cats - all wonderful and unique, but Tommycat is the kitty love of my life. I know what kind of relationship you can have with a pet, and I'm sorry you're in so much pain.

[RoyGBiv]

39. How's this ...

I went to work Saturday morning in a terrible mood. Customers who had complaints got no quarter, particularly if their complaints were idiotic. Some guy who cut in line got read the riot act. That's neither here nor there, but it explains my mood.

The security guard, best described as a big, lumbering oaf whose heart is generally in the right place even if his brain isn't, left for lunch, and on his way back saw a little, white kitten trying to cross 23rd St in OKC near downtown, a suicide mission to say the least. He decided to stop and pick it up, and when he got back, he handed him to me. The little guy immediately attached himself to me, and there was no question I was taking him home.

It feels very weird, almost a betryal, too soon ... but this little ball of fur needs a home. I told him he had some big paws to fill, but that he wasn't a replacement, just getting the benefit of Petey's sacrifice. He seems okay with that.

We'll talk about his name once he gets back from the vet tomorrow to make sure he's okay. Meanwhile, he's doing his best to be cute enough to make sure I want him to stay.

I feel better today, not great, but better. I still think I hear Petey off in the distance, letting me know it is time to go to bed, and I had a moment of panic this morning when I woke up without him nudging my nose. Maybe Pete sent this little guy to me and forgot to tell him nose nudging is the preferred way to get my attention, not assaulting my feet under the covers.

Who knows.

Thanks again, all.

Oh, and here's a pic of the newbie.

[bertha katzenengel]

48. IMO this is th best thing that could happen.

I was advised to get a new kitten just after I'd spent a week looking for the first cat that was ever my very own. Heartbroken as I was, that kitten was the perfect medicine.

Again, I'm so sorry about Petey. :hug:

Newbie's as cute as he can be. Have you named him?

[RoyGBiv]

64. As of this evening ...

The security guard who found him and I talked about it. The vet says his eyes will probably stay the color they are since he's about 10-12 weeks old and past the point where the eye color starts changing, and his haven't.

They're a bright blue.

Petey's real name was Ol' Pete, and I started with that theme.

So, we thought Ol' Blue Eyes, Frank Sinatra ... Franky.

[bertha katzenengel]

65. Franky!

Great name. Congratulations! :thumbsup:

[Flaxbee]

54. yay! Oh my goodness, he's adorable!

Perhaps Petey did send him to you so you wouldn't hurt so much. Sounds like Petey was your guardian, and he's still looking after you.

What a wonderful thing to have happened. Sometimes bittersweet is the best feeling - sorrow and grief over Petey but laughter with your new kitten.

[Mz Pip]

59. Sometimes the universe

know what you need. What a sweet little critter. He looks a bit like my Gilbey, except that Gilbey has the ugliest face on the planet.

I still miss my departed kitties. They were a part of my life. The new ones aren't replacements - more like extentions of my life as a cat lover.

Newbie is lucky to have found you. :loveya:

Mz Pip
:dem:

[SammyWinstonJack]

51. ..

:cry: :hug:

[zonkers]

3. Thats super rough. I lost one that way. He looks fluffy and happy,

[WritingIsMyReligion]

4. Aww! *sniff* He could be the twin of my male cat.

:cry:

I'm sorry, RoyGBiv.

:hug:

[SeattleGirl]

5. Poor Petey.

:hug:

[Runcible Spoon]

6. ya know....

I'm not sure I believed in reincarnation until my old cat Romeo died, and 10 years later, Scrappy entered my life. I think that pets are reincarnated more quickly than humans because their souls are pure :) So when you feel you are ready, visit the animal shelter, and perhaps Petey will return to you. Farewell, Petey, you were obviously loved! :hug:

[ThomCat]

7. I'm very sorry.

:hug:
Much love for you and Petey.

[bleedingheart]

8. sorry about that...

what a sweet kitty...he was

[bigwillq]

9. I am very sorry for your loss.

:hug:

[Call Me Wesley]

10. Safe passage to Petey.

Might his sufferings be over. Comfort and peace to you and yours.

[Dangerously Amused]

11. So sorry for your loss.

The hardest thing you will ever have to do. But I truly believe that your decision, made in love and with devotion to Petey's best interests, will be accepted by Petey with understanding and love in return.

I'm so sorry for your loss. But I also believe that Petey's spirit will not wander far from yours until the day you both can be reunited on the same plane.


Hugs for you:




A candle for Petey:

[Kajsa]

12. I'm so sorry RoyGBiv.

I lost two of my kitty buddies to feline leukemia.
This was before they had a vaccine for it.

I know what you're going through, the feelings are all
coming back like it was yesterday.

Petey will not suffer and become very ill, like one of
mine did. He will go peacefully, knowing you loved
him very much.

I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
A big hug and support to you.

:hug:

[MissMillie]

13. He's going to miss you too

:hug:

[livetohike]

14. I'm so sorry you lost Petey

:hug: I hope the good memories you have of this beautiful cat will help ease the sadness.

[ulysses]

15. oh hell.

I'm sorry. :hug:

[Xipe Totec]

16. I am proud of you

for standing by your friend in his time of need.

Safe passage to him.

[miss_american_pie]

17. I'm so sorry

:hug:

[RevCheesehead]

18. Petey had a wonderful life with you.

He was a very, very lucky kitty.

I'm so very sorry. :hug:

[GCP]

19. Petey was a lucky guy

Having someone like you who loved him so much. ((Hugs)) :hug: Rest assured he loved you just as much. :hug:

[KT2000]

20. Oh, what a sweet guy

I am so sorry for you to lose such a fine fellow.
Peace to you.

[u4ic]

21. I'm so sorry, Roy

It's so difficult to lose a cherished companion. :hug:

[Mikimouse]

22. I'm sorry for the loss of Petey, he will always be with you...

You'll just have one more guardian angel checking out the path ahead.:hug:

[Floogeldy]

23. Dude, I feel for you.

Long live Petey, in our hearts.

[Radio_Lady]

25. Goodbye Petey! Hope you get into Heaven with your friends and

family! Safe journey, sleep well, my pet.

[City Lights]

26. Oh RoyGBiv, I'm so so sorry.

:cry: I know how it hurts to lose a beloved friend. :cry:

:hug:

Rest peacefully, Petey, and rub Watson for me when you see him. :cry:

[devilgrrl]

28. I am so sorry about your little Petey

:cry::cry::cry::hug::hug::hug:

[Maestro]

29. I'm so sorry.

We had to do the same to one of our dogs. She had just suffered too long and we kept her around more for us than for her. It is the best choice. I'm sure, but it is still difficult. Good thoughts coming your way.

[bridgit]

30. Goodbye Petey...

:cry: O8)

[Robb]

32. I'm so very sorry RGB

:grouphug:

[AirmensMom]

33. Aw, what a cutie.

:loveya: I'm so sorry, RoyGBiv. :cry: :hug:

[bluethruandthru]

34. Oh RoyGBiv...I'm so sorry!

What an agonizing thing for you to go through. Petey knows how much you loved him and he'll always be in your heart. I hope he's chasing catnip mice with my Donald (who could have been his twin) right now!

:hug:

[nuxvomica]

35. I'm so sorry you are losing such a good friend

Keep him in your heart
I'm sure he'll be comfortable there.
It was always like a warm windowsill to him anyway,
Or an overstuffed chair.
He'll just curl up and doze
And sometimes,
When it's very quiet,
You'll hear the purring.

Take care, RoyGBiv

[lavenderdiva]

36. oh, Roy, I'm so very sorry to hear about Petey...

You did the absolute best thing for him. He did not have to suffer. He's now in heaven with my dear sweet Emma. We will see them again, you can be sure.

I know how much it hurts right now. You can be sure Petey knows how much you loved him, and it sounds like he absolutely loved you. You were his safe place. At some point in the future, when you aren't hurting so much, you will find another sweet soul who needs love and a home, and your heart will heal. But for now, its ok to cry and to hurt. We understand... Sending you lots of hugs: :hug: :cry: :hug:

[allalone]

37. I'm so sorry

Petey, wait for dad on the other side.

[progmom]

38. i am so sorry

:hug:

so, so sorry.

[RandomKoolzip]

40. This is a really sad thread.

The look on Petey's face, in this context, is heartbreaking. I'm really sorry for your loss.

[ScreamingMeemie]

50. You know, I was thinking the same thing.

I'm taking the new kitten in for her first vet check for FL and worms and such and this thread just kills me. :(

[reformedrepub]

41. sorry dude

I lost my buddy in May....It sucked for awhile.

[Vidar]

42. Tough to lose a friend like that.

[NewWaveChick1981]

43. I'm so sorry...

:hug: Petey was a good friend, and I know what losing a pet is like. I've been where you are before, and I know the grief. You have my utmost sympathy. :hug:

[xchrom]

44. for petey

    "Wishes"

We wish we could have told you,
in words you'd understand,
We wanted you to stay with us.
This wasn't what we'd planned.

We wish somehow to tell you,
How empty we now feel.
A part of us went with you,
A part that time can't heal.

We wish we'd once more hear you,
in your softly, rumbling purr,
to hold you on our laps again
and stroke your golden fur.

We wish we had you back again,
to fill this empty space.
But one day we'll be together
in a far, far better place.


          Kristen Sharer

[RoyGBiv]

62. That was beautiful ...

Thank you so much for that. Made me cry all over again, but it was a better cry than the ones I've been having for the last couple days.

That's going in my Petey scrapbook.

[xchrom]

45. and also this

Poem For Cats

And God asked the feline spirit
Are you ready to come home?
Oh, yes, quite so, replied the precious soul
And, as a cat, you know I am most able
To decide anything for myself.

Are you coming then? asked God.
Soon, replied the whiskered angel
But I must come slowly
For my human friends are troubled
For you see, they need me, quite certainly.

But don't they understand? asked God
That you'll never leave them?
That your souls are intertwined. For all eternity?
That nothing is created or destroyed?
It just is....forever and ever and ever.

Eventually they will understand,
Replied the glorious cat
For I will whisper into their hearts
That I am always with them
I just am....forever and ever and ever.

Author Unknown

[terrya]

46. I'm so sorry for your loss.

My sincere condolences to you. That is the hardest decision to make. I can tell though that Petey was so lucky. He got so much love from you. He had a happy life because of the love you gave him.

:hug:

[bertha katzenengel]

47. oh, god, RoyGBiv, i am so, so sorry

dear god, i'm sorry :hug: don't know what to say.

[ScreamingMeemie]

49. RoyGBiv...Petey is beautiful, and I am so sorry.

This hurts so much to read. Thank you for giving him a wonderful life. Your line, "Petey styling his favorite shoes" made me giggle...before I started to cry. :(

Sleep well, dear cat. :hug:

[Deep13]

52. poor kitty.

:(

[ellie]

53. I'm sorry about your kitty.

He looks like my Winston who died unexpectedly while laying next to me in bed last December. The vet said it was probably an aneurysm. I still call out his name. I asked him to come back to me, in whatever form he wished.

[SoCalDem]

55. What a sad day for you...

It's the only bad thing about loving pets. You outlive them and have to help them pass or you get them when you are older and worry about their care when you leave before them..

No matter how hard it is, its always better to have loved them :hug:

[calico1]

56. I am so sorry.

Its always so hard to lose a furry one. My own little orange boy in my sig also died recently...a little over a month ago. Maybe the two of them will meet up and become pals over in kitty heaven. :hug:

[TK421]

57. It's hard to lose a pet...sometimes, it's like losing a best friend

I can't imagine what you are going through, but hang in there.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

58. RIP, Petey.

[Pool Hall Ace]

60. Those shoes remind me of Dr. Scholl's exercise sandals.

I am so sorry, RoyGBiv. :hug: I hope that happy memories of Petey help you to continue to feel his fuzzy presence.

[RoyGBiv]

63. Those shoes ...

Those shoes will be one of my lingering, fond memories.

I accused Petey of being a perv with a foot fetish. He had this thing for shoes. Whenever a guest was in my home and took off their shoes, he claimed them as his. When the guest would put them back on, or try to, Petey had a few words for them about taking his property.

I never understood it. He had it from the moment I got him.

Those shoes once belonged to my mom. Petey let her borrow them, but whenever she was visiting, he claimed them again. That pic was taken while we were on vacation a couple weeks ago. Petey slept on them.

[ScreamingMeemie]

66. That is the sweetest...

Merlin needs to put his head in my husband's work boots every day to make sure the right guy came home. :)

[catbert836]

61. Oh, oh man.

One of my cats, Carmel, looks almost exactly like your Petey. I have no clue what I'd do without him around... he almost left us one time after eating dental floss, but the vets were just barely able to save him.

I can't really say that I know what you're going through, but I wish peace for you and especially for Petey.

On edit: I'm glad you've found someone else to keep you company through your suffering. :pals:

[UrbScotty]

67. I am so sorry.

:hug: