It wouldn't be heaven without them.
Posted on 06/23/2025 9:27:44 PM PDT by logi_cal869
Ospreys are amazing. They form long-term pair bonds. After breeding, they migrate separately to South America (or Central America for some populations) for the winter. Males and females may winter in different regions, but their strong fidelity to the nesting site ensures they reconnect in the spring.
Both partners return to the same nest, typically built in open areas near water. The male often arrives first to defend the nest, and the female joins shortly after. Their migration can cover thousands of miles, with wintering grounds ranging from southern U.S. to South America (e.g., Brazil or Venezuela).
A naturalist describing this behavior for the Ospreys in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho told the story of a very late arriving female. She was so late getting back to the nest that the male took a new mate. When Mrs. #1 came back to the nest and found Mrs. #2 shacked up with Mister, all hell broke loose. Mrs. #1 was finally victorious and evicted the nest-breaker.
What a touching story about Puffer! It sounds like he was a wonderful addition to your family. I, too, believe that one’s beloved pets will be in heaven since God will want us to be happy there, and having one’s pet will add to that happiness.
These little creatures all won a place in my heart, with distinct personalities and signs of affection for me. I miss the ones who are gone and rue the day when the cat goes -- if I do not go first. I too am convinced that our pets have souls and will be with us again.
So sorry. Beautiful write up. I’m very sorry for Puffer and you and your wife. Wish I had better words, but thank you for telling us his story. Very touching.
Puffer was a loved happy part of your life... of course you’re going to miss him. You’re in my prayers...
It wouldn't be heaven without them.
I’m sorry for your loss. It hurts every time you lose a beloved pet.
No explanation necessary, Logi. Mrs. Eagle and I know what you are going through. It hurts. Blessings, blessings, blessings. 💔
I’m so sorry for your loss. At the same time, I think Puffer really scored in life when he adopted you. He finished his life with his family around him. Prayers up for your grief.
amen, brother. having reached a certain age myself, your touching account resonates. my condolences on the loss of your beloved pet and family member.
I understand, we just put our Chihuahua, Apollo down. He was six pounds of attitude. Fifteen years old, no teeth, a lotta bark not much bite. He ran the house. Our other 3 dogs, all rescue dogs, were submissive to him. We miss him dearly.
Oh, no . I am so very sorry. My heart goes out to you. Our pets were put in our lives and brought out the best in us. Hugs to you and your family.
The human bond with a pet is nearly equal to that of a close relative. Pets are indeed much smarter and affectionate than most people. A pet is always there for you, never back stabs, never does hurtful things a relative or supposed friend can do.
We also closely watch our outdoor animals, the ones we feed such as birds and squirrels. It’s amazing how smart they are.
Rest in Peace, Puffer. See ya soon. ;-(
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I empathize with how you feel and agree with every one of your thoughts on this issue. Over the years I’ve lost many pets, the last one, still after two years, being too painful to even think about. I believe many people, especially those who manage to live into their seventies and older, eventually come to the realization that (1) ALL creatures on the planet should be treated with the utmost respect and dignity because their very survival is dependent upon mankind’s protection and good will; and (2) one of the most horrifying things ever done in the history of mankind has been the unthinking (or willful) extermination of other living species. The estimated number of such exterminations is shocking. I don’t recall that number right now but it’s easily available online.
Birds are amazing little creatures. Even just backyard birds that can bond in pairs for life, share in nest building, feeding their young together, migrating long distances, etc., etc.
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I live on a farm property and one of my most enjoyable activities is watching, listening to, and feeding wild birds.
Of all of the emotions man can have, mourning is the strongest. You can really really hate someone. You can really really love someone but the sadness associated with loss or mourning weighs the heaviest of all emotions.
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So true as I’ve learned many times over the years.
The human bond with a pet is nearly equal to that of a close relative.
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I read an article recently, maybe here on FR, about psychological studies indicating that grieving over the loss of a beloved pet is commonly more traumatic than the experience of losing a close friend or even a relative.
I’m sad for you...
After my father’s death I was sitting on the back porch and picked up the neighbor’s duckling. It crawled up my chest and got on my shoulder. It turned around and the little critter then started giving me duck kisses on my cheek. So touching.
Argg, I’m a pirate now.
Your story made me cry. I’m sorry for your loss. Thanks for sharing.
What a wonderful pet. Cannot imagine your grief, although I’m glad you were with him at the end instead of just finding him gone one day. God be with you both in your sad loss.
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