On Losing a Pet

(c) Rabbi Menachem Creditor

Dear God,

I’m sad. 

This pet was my friend,

and I loved watching it grow,

helping it eat,

cleaning it.

I learned so much taking care of my friend,

and now s/he is dead. 

I don’t understand what that means.

I’m not sure whether I believe animals have

the same kinds of souls as people,

but it matters to me that I’ve lost my friend.

I’m burying _________ now,

And I hope that s/he is comfortable.

Even if I get a new pet,

I’ll always remember ___________.

Thank you, God, for letting me share so much time with __________________.

Amen.