I get so sick of hearing "get over it" from people that I think I'm going to explode sometimes! It makes me feel a lot better (and calmer!) talking to other animal lovers who care and sympathize with my situation. These aren't just cards; they're treasures, especially the one with the pawprint.

I got cards from the vets, too--two from the emergency clinic that last treated Sandy and one from her regular vet. One of the cards from the emergency clinic had the Rainbow Bridge story on the front and an ink impression of Sandy's pawprint inside--it's so beautiful. Just looking at it is making me cry right now. The others are signed by staff members at both hospitals.

I have used a pet loss chat room a couple times, and I'm a member of two online grief support communities. While these things help, I know that I probably need a professional--one who loves animals and understands the deep pain of losing them--to help me learn how to cope with my emotions. I can't see myself going to anyone who doesn't have or hasn't ever had an animal in their lives and expecting them to understand.