In Memory of Butch
Animal Stories from All-Creatures.org

August 2009
Hi,

a-inmembutch-02

I just wanted to share with you that my beloved Butch was euthanized yesterday (25 March 2009).

He had FIV (not contagious to humans), and had stopped eating recently. He was suffering and the blood work showed that he was dying with a poor prognosis.

He had the most expressive eyes, and Mom (who passed away last month) enjoyed him, too. He was fearless, and I believe he was the first to become friends with Buffy (also from Pennsylvania.

a-inmembutch-01

Butch adopted me in Pennsylvania when he showed up on my porch. He had very bad ear mites (which permanently affected his ear) and was a mess.

I tried to find a good home for him while in the Poconos because he would fight other male cats. An elderly couple took him briefly, but decided that they didn't want him (they thought he was constipated!), and returned him back to me, which I wanted them to do, if they didn't want him, which I'm grateful for! I kept him ever since.

He lived a good life and died peacefully. (It was my first time comforting and being with a 'pet' being euthanized).

Mom and I saw something special in him -- He truly touched our hearts. I will miss him very much.

I wanted to share him with you.

If It Should Be

If it be I grow frail and weak,
And pain should wake me from my sleep.
Then you must do what must be done,
For this last battle cannot be won.
You will be sad, I understand,
Don't let your grief then stay your hand
For this day more than all the rest,
Your love and friendship stand the test.

We've has so many happy years,
What is to come will hold no fears.
You'd not want me to suffer so,
When the time comes, please let me go.
Take me where my needs they'll tend,
Only stay with me until the end,
And hold me firm and speak to me,
Until my eyes no longer see.

I know in time you too will see
It was a kindness you do to me.
Although my tail its last has waved,
From pain and suffering I've been saved.
Do not grieve that it should be you
Who has to decide this thing to do.
We've been so close, we all these years.
Don't let your heart hold bitter tears.

Thank you.

Peace to you and to all.

Jan


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