It is extremely difficult when your four-legged friend’s livelihood is threatened, continued...

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Examiner

In case you are wondering, the actor who displayed "agony" in the article is my boyfriend's dog and mine by default, Ronnie. He is quite a character!

I know many people, including myself, who have been in this dramatic and draining position with their pet. And, unless you are a true animal lover, this type of trauma is confusing; many non-animal lovers write off these little babies as less than a life which is really WRONG!

I struggled with the thought of ending my cat's life, Scruples, in his last year. I had taken him to 2 vets and both told me, he was still very much alive and comfortable. I was prepared to end his suffering had they told me he was in pain. He passed on God's watch but as he struggled with his last breaths, I wondered if I should have put him down. We all feel guilt regardless of the decision; it is just plain hard to think of either aspect!

I'm sure Scruples knew I loved him and I was with him for twenty years, right to his last breath. I miss him so much I can't even describe it. I know you can relate.

Can you share any of your pet memories or miracles? I would love to read about them!

Food, soothing but poisonous, continued...

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Examiner

My waist-line has increased with each tragedy in my life. I can look into the mirror and see more shape than ever from the trials and tribulations I have endured.

For example, I gave up sugar for my New Year’s resolution this year. I made it for almost 5 months but when I lost my cat, I decided if I'm able to find any satisfaction by binging into goodies, well then so be it; I deserve the pick me up!

In the aftermath of more than 2 weeks of junk food, my diversion only caused me more heart-ache and sadness! The good news is I’m no longer the queen of denial and I’m hopeful this will open a healthier and more caring future for me.

Do you love the person you see in the mirror? If so, can you share your secret?

Her inspiration, Second Hand Purrs; an all cat rescue shelter, continued...

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Examiner

My friend Kristy adopted her kitty from Second Hand Purrs in Wisconsin and she thought very highly of this shelter. I can understand why after interfacing with Susan, the owner, for my article. She, no doubt, has a very big heart! I will be donating something in my cat, Scruple's name as I'm sure it would make him happy for me to do so in his memory. If you are an animal lover and can help out please do. If you're not able to but you can pray for her shelter to continue to be able to do such good work, please send your prayers! These little babies are so precious and deserving.

Do you know a good shelter that you would like to share with me? If so, drop me a note so we can let others know!

Give credit for your birth on Mother's Day, continued...

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Article

I am extremely lucky to still have my Mother in my life. We live locally and therefore I'm able to see her often. We visit, shop and still break bread together as much as possible. I'm really proud of my Mom's courage as she has braved a world without my Dad for 2 years this month; she is finding her way back to a healthy existence! She is becoming more independent with time. She, of course, still misses him, but she is resisting a world without him less each day which is gifting a new life to her. I have 3 siblings and between all 4 of us, she'll be busy with visits and gifts this Sunday. Happy Mother's Day Mom, I love you!!!

Pets teach you to love, continued...

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Examiner article

The sweet looking, big-eyed and fury friend in the photo is my Mom's (formerly my Dad's) little confidant. Cody was my Dad's world, of course, besides my Mom. He followed him everywhere! My Dad, inappropriately, shared coffee & candy with Cody all the time regardless of our voiced disapproval. Unfortunately, it caught up with him. The day before my Dad's funeral, Cody's face was swollen and we had to take him to the vet; he ended up losing 10 teeth! I joked that Dad didn't need his dentures anymore although my Mom didn't think it was too funny. The crazy thing is, my Dad loved this dog so much, he would have happily given up his teeth if required!

Do you have any heroic or funny pet stories you can share? I would love to create more animal articles for all of us to enjoy! Please email them to me; lifetimeartimpression@yahoo.com

A love affair with animals, continued...

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Examiner

Arlene stepping into my life was heaven sent. Neither of us had any idea that when I would be reading her response to my interview questions (which focused on Pet bereavement and her efforts towards animal health) that my cat, Scruples, would be taking his last breaths in those very moments. Her kindness did sooth my aching heart. I will never forget how Scruples touched my life nor should I; he was a blessing. I encourage you to take a look at Arlene's sight, of course, only if you are an animal lover!

I am looking for funny pet stories so if you have any, please share them as my heart could use a pick me up!

Uninsured at the time of diagnosis, she needs your help, continued...

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Examiner

I was sent an invite through Facebook to join the Sue Weiss fundraiser. She is the face of many in our nation; someone without insurance coping with cancer. I have an aunt in a similar situation. My heart hurts when I think of so many. There are a lot of people who are worried about making ends meet but there are also many who live very comfortable lives. It is my hope that when you read Sue's story, you will donate (if possible), pass it forward to others & pray for her. I believe prayer is so powerful, it will help!

What are your thoughts about our uninsured Americans? Share them with me.