Something I think cat owners could identify with, as well.
We'll see our animals again. What's going on now here isn't their fault. They misbehave because nature itself has been tainted or people warp them to do bad things, but nothing personally is held against them. Remember, God says He is going to make all things new again (with notes that 'new again' can be read 'renew'). Why wouldn't the animals come back if ALL things will be made new? They will.
I am so sorry for your loss - but thank you for posting this, and thank you for being a friend to strays cats and dogs.
All of our furry friends have come from shelters and/or right off of the street - they really do make the best companions.
There is sorrow enough in the natural way From men and women to fill our day; And when we are certain of sorrow in store, Why do we always arrange for more? Brothers and Sisters, I bid you beware Of giving your heart to a dog to tear. Buy a pup and your money will buy Love unflinching that cannot lie -- Perfect passion and worship fed By a kick in the ribs or a pat on the head. Nevertheless it is hardly fair To risk your heart for a dog to tear. When the fourteen years which Nature permits Are closing in asthma, or tumour, or fits, And the vet's unspoken prescription runs To lethal chambers or loaded guns, Then you will find -- it's your own affair -- But . . . you've given your heart to a dog to tear. When the body that lived at your single will, With its whimper of welcome, is stilled (how still!) When the spirit hat answered your every mood Is gone -- wherever it goes -- for good, You will discover how much you care, And will give your heart to a dog to tear. We've sorrow enough in the natural way, When it comes to burying Christian clay. Our loves are not given, but only lent, At compound interest of cent per cent. Though it is not always the case, I believe, That the longer we've kept'em, the more do we grieve; For, when debts are payable, right or wrong, A short-time loan is as bad as a long -- So why in -- Heaven (before we are there) Should we give our hearts to a dog to tear?