I’m sitting here at my computer, working on some updates and organizing information, contacting folks, etc. Additionally, I initially sat down to write some sort of “pithy”  piece to provide inspiration to all pet parents out there.

Lo and behold, Logan, my 5 year old tabby (brother of Lexi (who has become my “model” on my site) sauntered up onto my desk to lay down and “supervise” my work! Actually, he is now sound asleep under the warmth of my desk lamp with his head slightly hanging over the edge of the desk near the keyboard–I can feel his calm breaths on my left fingers.  My fast-paced and anxious movements have gradually slowed down with his presence, and I am now more mindful of him and my affection for him.

Unconditional love.  It is demonstrated in so many ways by our beloved pets, and often, we miss it completely and take it for granted. But please remember, it is there. Most of us know it, but we need to be more mindful of this extraordinary relationship we have with our furry friends (or scaly, feathery, etc.!).  Thank you, Logan, for your visit.  I am glad you are here with me and I appreciate your companionship.

Cats, dogs, horses, fish, birds, snakes, lizards, rats, gerbils, hamsters—-these are the more common types of beloved pets that I have learned about from grieving pet parents and animal care specialists. However, today, I was intrigued by the story of an older gentleman, Mr. E  (who asked to remain anonymous but urged me to share his story) and his exotic pet whom he still misses and grieves after 30-plus years.

We stood in the hallway of a nursing and rehab facility as he told me the story of his unusual befriending of an Egyptian fruit-bat that was given to him by a family member upon arrival from traveling abroad.  The bat often  sat upon Mr. E’s  right shoulder whenever he was  reading or working on one of his hobbies inside at a table.  Mr. E’s eyes beamed bright as he recounted several memories that were truly unique, including his research into the proper care of an Egyptian fruit-bat.  After all, he asked me, did I know anyone else who had ever had a fruit-bat as a true house pet?!  He became a bit tearful and stated that he still misses that fruit-bat after so many decades. He thanked me for listening to him and walked away.

Thank you, Mr. E, for sharing your loving memories of a wonderful pet!  It is humbling for me to realize that any  pet, no matter how unusual or “different,” can bring such joy into a relationship with its human partner and be honored with such loving tribute.

~Pam Spear, MS, OTR/L, GC-C

Welcome to my first post as editor for Not Just A Pet. This is a site for any person who is having difficulty coping with the death of his or her pet.  I am a board certified occupational therapist, professional pet loss and bereavement counselor, certified grief counselor but most importantly, a devoted pet lover.

My goal is to provide you with therapeutic tools and strategies that empower you with hope, adding value and meaning to the grieving process. There is no perfect way to grieve, but I can help you integrate your pet’s loss into your new daily living routine.

Please check in often as I update this site several times per week.

Pamela Spear, MS, OTR/L, GC-C