Gizmo was 18 years old and was put to sleep at the vets this morning in her mommy and daddy's arms. She has lived with us for almost all of those 18 years - we found her when she was 4 weeks old, abandoned behind our office in a box with 8 other kittens. She was the only one to live. She never meowed like other cats. She beeped and was a huge cuddler for a female calico and especially loved men. I was probably the only female she ever liked and would let hold her. She is at peace now and so am I knowing she is no longer suffering. It's always a hard decision to make.
A Pet’s Plea
Treat me kindly, my beloved friend, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for kindness than the loving heart of me.
Do not break my spirit with a stick, for although I should lick your hand between blows, your patience and understanding will quickly teach me the things you would have me learn.
Speak to me often, for your voice is the world’s sweetest music, as you must know by the fierce purring and excitement when your footsteps falls upon my waiting ear.
Please take me inside when it is cold and wet, for I am a domesticated animal, no longer accustomed to bitter elements. I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting in your lap. Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst.
Feed me clean food that I may stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding, to walk by your side and stand ready, willing and able to protect you with my life, should your life be in danger.
And, my friend, when I am very old, and I no longer enjoy good health, hearing and sight, do not make heroic efforts to keep me going. I am not having any fun. Please see that my trusting life is taken gently. I shall leave this earth knowing with the last breath I draw that my fate was always safest in your hands.
Author Unknown
