The Mary T. and
Frank L. Hoffman
Family Foundation
and All-Creatures.Org

Letters and Responses

I would like to thank Dr. Middleburgh for his article about saying Kaddish for a deceased pet. A week ago, I had to have my dog put to sleep. He was 14 years old and suffering from an enlarged heart. It was one of the most difficult things I have ever had to do.

We had known Barkley from the time he was a puppy. He was family. I thought there had to be a prayer to say for a pet, but could find nothing in any of our prayer books. I could not bring myself to ask our rabbi, as I could not even talk about my poor pet without bursting into tears. I had held him in my arms while the drugs to put him to sleep were administered. He died peacefully and (it seemed to me) with relief. Yet, I still felt that I needed to say some prayer for him.

I finally decided to resort to the internet and found Rabbi Middleburgh's article. I immediately said Kaddish for Barkley and now feel that I have fulfilled all of my obligations to my little friend.

Beatrice Ferraro
 

Reply from Frank and Mary Hoffman

Dear Beatrice:

We’re sorry to hear about Barkley’s death, and know how traumatic such an experience can be, having gone through it ourselves.

Be assured he’s with God.

In the Love of the Lord,

Frank and Mary

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