greatbear | Meow, woof

I've read a few of my friend's journals in recent times where the passing of a beloved pet is spoken of and commented by heartfelt, emotional and loving words. Having been through it so many times in the past myself, I know exactly the feelings of the writers. I had been mulling over a little essay on how easy an animal can insinuate itself into the hearts and homes of some people, using my own past darlings as an example. I am going to do this still, but in the past couple days one of my favorite comic strips, For Better or For Worse, did a nice job of how it usually goes.

FBoFW has always had pets in major story lines throughout the series. The first one written about was Farley, their dog. Just as a 'real family' (which is what this strip emulates, in timeline and story line), Farley shows up in the focus of the storytelling. Comic relief, funny as well as touching scenarios, and just daily life, Farley was there. Then came a series where Farley jumps into a river to save the youngest of the children who was drowning. Farley, being an old dog, manages to save the child and become the family hero, but at the cost of his own life. That series (which can still be found on the site) made me bawl my eyes out. Still does when I read it. The next dog I have, if it's male, will probably be named Farley.

Pets are special sometimes. There are some who will not see that, to them it will just be a dog or a cat. For the majority of folks, however, their dog or their cat will become far more - not an animal, not just a pet. No, to us they will be family. Like people, but somehow even better, with their unconditional love, undying devotion and charming ways.

We sure miss them when they are gone.