I am a sixty one year old male, business owner, engineer, computer programmer and someone who loves animals. Almost two years ago, I lost the very best friend I ever had. I still cry over his loss, I still miss him soooo much, I long for the day when we will be together again.
My best friend Stuart a deaf ferret wandered into my office one sunny day in April of 2001 and he stayed with me until June 7, of 2003. When I first saw him, he looked like a dirty little hobo, when he left he was indeed a prince. He was looking for a place to live and someone to love him and boy did he come to the right place. I knew absolutely nothing about ferrets but I knew that there was something very special about Stuart. To make a long story short, during the time we were together we did everything together. We spent two hours together every morning and two hours together every afternoon.
I built him a three level house with two bedrooms, one had a circular bed with a silk sheet, a hammock, a dining area and a complete floor covered with what other ferrets use for bedding that he used as a bathroom. I love him more than I love any person or animal I have ever known. The effect he had on me is indescribable.
At the end of his life, Stuart had liver disease; a mass growing near his heart, lymphoma, and only GOD knows what else. His first vet removed his spleen. His second vet was treating him for liver disease.
I made a promise to my little friend early on. The promise was that no matter what I would never let him suffer. On Saturday morning June 7, 2003 at 9:00AM, I kept my promise. I had Stuart put to rest while I held him in my hands. The tears are flowing almost uncontrollably as I write this just as they did on that terrible day. A piece of me died with Stuart, I will never be the same nor shall I ever experience
the kind of love that we shared.
Stuart is buried in a pet cemetery not far from where I live. I visit his grave every single day. I pray for his beloved little soul every single day. I have adopted thirty-six animal graves in Stuart’s section. I plant grass, cut the grass level the stones, fertilize, trim the trees, and water. Soon this area will be the best in the entire cemetery.
I live my life, as Stuart would have wanted me to. I try to help others that are grieving for lost pets. I try to give not take from society. I donate four times a year to a ferret shelter in Stuart’s name, the amount is substantial because that is the way Stuart wants it.
Because of this gentle little 2.7 lb. creature, I am a different person. I am a better person. GOD BLESS MY PRESIOUS LITTLE FRIEND STUART.
Until we are together again I will continue to do things that honor this sweet, gentle little soul.
Richard
Stuart’s Dad
With ALL my love,
| Richard |