I can't imagine what you're going through. I've never really lost a pet besides when I was little and not really attached. But there have been a few times when I look at my dog (who is not quite 6) and think that her life is half over and then she'll be gone. And I get pretty teary-eyed just thinking about it, knowing it's a long way off. For many of us, our pets really are like best friends. Nevaeh has been with me through so much already and if nobody else is around, I always know that she's there to comfort me through the hard times.

Now it's your turn to comfort Rascal in his tough time, knowing his pain is almost over. I know it's cliche (and hard to do!) but it really is easier when you try to think of the good times instead of the loss in your life. And a good support system helps as well!