Fluke's Aftercare

12/24/2024

To my dearest Fluke's family,

Sitting here watching the snow gently fall on this Christmas Eve day, my thoughts traveled throughout this past year. And, if I'm going to be honest, the years past too. For it is during this time of celebration that we seem to reflect on all those who have touched us throughout the year and before. As we get older, we come to know that these blessings (gifts) are the best of all. It's not what's wrapped all pretty underneath the tree but what's tucked in our hearts to be unwrapped during these special times. Today, I've unwrapped you, your fur angels and yes, even your furbabies that I've met.

As I have been making my Christmas Eve post for several years now, it's become a Fluke's tradition to share these two special things with you on this special day. A message from the fur Angels if there could be one. The poem The Night Before Christmas at the Rainbow Bridge is a favorite of mine, as well as the song Christmas at Rainbow Bridge. I hope that you like them too if reading and hearing for the first time or if you are seeing them again.

John and I wish you all the Merriest of Christmases and a New Year filled with much health, happiness and love. Thank you for your treasured gifts of support, but more importantly, friendship throughout the years and know that you are often in our thoughts!

THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AT THE RAINBOW BRIDGE –

T’was the night before Christmas, at Rainbow Bridge too.

We Bridge kids were thinking as always of you.
We’d seen how the holidays weren’t bright this year,
Heard you whisper so often, “I wish you were here!
“We know how you wish you could just stay in bed
And sleep through the holiday lying ahead,
When all celebrate with their loved ones so near…
Unless they have loved ones on this side this year.
But we’re no less alive here, on the other side.

If you could just see us, you would’ve laughed and not cried.
The dogs all in harness, pulling the sleigh.
The cats all in Santa hats pointing the way.
The pet birds all flying back over the rainbow,
Bound homeward in spite of Earth’s darkness and snow.

All the pets that you’ve lost, pets for whom you’ve cried,
Flying home on this Christmas to be by your side.
If you feel warm fur brush you when no pet’s around,
Hear a soft bark or purr, just a ghost of a sound,
We’re trying to tell you we’re visiting this way,

And our visits, even rainbows, can be on any day.
But for Christmas we have something special to do,
A sleigh full of happy dream visits for you.

On doggy, on kitty, on winged friend and ferret!T
he love that you lavished, we mean now to share it!
We’re fetching that love home, the way we once played,
With the closeness we shared and the memories we made.

Our Earth lives with you were too short for us, too,
And on this Christmas Eve we have so much to do.
So all through this night as you sleep in your beds,
Sweet visions of fur babies dance in your heads.

This one special night we can bring you Home for a while,
Your true home in Heaven, where again you will smile.
Over the rainbow you’ll fly, for a short while this night,
Hours that you’ll be happy, hours that will feel right,
Hours to cuddle and hug us, to run and to play,
Before the return to Earth in our magic way.

And when you awaken and face Christmas Day,We pray you’ll remember your trip on our sleigh,
But in case you forget, just remember our love.
Remember us watching you, your angels above.

Sending love wrapped in rainbows, shining and bright,
Love that will guide you through the darkest night,
Love found in each memory unwrapped through the year,
Replacing dark sorrows with Christmas cheer.

Leave the toys to St. Nick, we Bridge kids bring dreams,
Sweet visits to remind you all is not as it seems
When you look all around you with tired Earthly eyes.
If you saw as we do, there’d be joy and surprise.

There are fur angels waiting by those Christmas trees,
Always there for you and hearing your pleas.
We’re never more than a thought away from your home,
You’re never forgotten, you’re never alone.
Nor are we alone here, with our Rainbow Bridge friends.
We know only joy here, the celebrating never ends,

And after our reunions with you Christmas Eve,
We Bridge kids will party like you’d never believe.
But we’ll slip away often to be by your side.
Sitting there watching you, eyes open wide,
Praying you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of us, too.
But whether or not you see us – Merry Christmas to you!-

Cindy Morgan (2007)

There is a place called 'Rainbow Bridge' where our beloved pets live after they leave their earthy bodies. At 'Rainbow Bridge,' our furry loved ones are heal...

12/16/2024

All credit goes to Lady Bug Art. My thoughts exactly.

12/07/2024

Exactly all of our thoughts. Copied from another site. Author unknown.

I WANT YOU

I don’t want your ashes in a nice carved out urn
I don’t want your nicely framed paw print
I don’t want to buy flowers for your memorial place
I don’t want to light a candle for you
I don’t want to run my fingers through your plaque
I want you

I don’t want to say good morning to your photo on my mantelpiece
I don’t want to caress the soft jumper that you left behind
I don’t want to hold your cold blanket close to my chest
I don’t want to write to you in my daily journal
I don’t want to compile a video of your photos
I want you

I want to stroke your soft fur one more time
I want to gently kiss your furry nose one more time
I want to feel your weight on my lap one more time
I want to hear your demanding meow one more time
I want to see into your beautiful green eyes one more time
I want you

I want to hear your loud purring one more time
I want to hand feed you one more time
I want to clean your ears one more time
I want to take you for a walk around the house one more time
I want to sit in the sunshine with you one more time
I want you

I want to feel you next to me as I drift to sleep one more time
I want you waking me up at 5 a.m. one more time
I want you greeting me at the door one more time
I want you following me around everywhere one more time
I want to ask you about your day one more time
I want you

If only I could do everything with you again, just one more time, just one last time

11/29/2024

Giving Thanks..

As another wonderful Thanksgiving day comes to an end, and our bellies are full from the day's feast, we are reflecting on how grateful we are to each and every one of you. We cherish and appreciate the loyalty and support that you have offered us over the past 20 years. With God's grace, we will continue to be here for you and your furangels for some time to come. As we age, there will be some subtle changes to come, but we will be here for you, Fluke's family.

We've implemented some changes already such as our newly established pet pantry. Actually, this came about through our Fluke's family members. We will now accept any new and unopened pet food or any pet supplies (no toys or beds please) in good, usable condition. These will be offered to other "family members" whose furbabies at home could benefit. Sort of a pay-it-forward from one furbaby to another.

We are also the first to provide our families with our new pet loss comfort box. I've put together some things to hopefully help make your loss a little lighter. It is something that is not currently presented (by veterinarians or crematoriums) to grieving pet families in this area yet, but I'm sure now that I've made it public, there will now be plenty of others who are going to plagiarize this idea, but for me, it genuinely comes from my heart to help in healing yours.

As we enter the holiday season, we understand that it can be a difficult time especially if your loss is recent. Just know that we can continue to celebrate with our furangels in our hearts even if they are unable to be in our homes. Thank you all, once again, for being such a huge part of our journey and touching our lives forever. ❤️

11/11/2024

On this day, we would like to thank those who have served to protect this country. And to those who are currently serving and will be a veteran in the future, thank you, too, and to their families who are left behind worrying about their loved ones protecting us.

11/11/2024

This is not a usual post for me, but this is what family is for right? And this situation is dire. We have a Fluke's family member who is looking to rehome her mother's Shepherd. If you are interested, please private message me and I will get you the contact information. Here's more info:

Loki is an unneutered, chipped, pure bred shepherd who will be 6 on 4/17/2025. Owner has Dementia / Alzheimer's and her daughter/caregiver is looking to rehome him at this time. He's good with the daughter's 12 year old pittie but can be a bit bossy with him. Not sure about cats. The daughter states "He's definately loyal , loving, & protective of his human. Had since 6 months old. Very smart , would make a great rescue / companion / service fur baby ! He loves his tennis ball , has a runner, ball, squeaky toys ( 2 ) = his favorite. :) Dog bowl, leash. He's had his shots. I have the 2 vets he's been to & Home Again info. He was trained by breeder we got from. Don't have command sheet ; although could be trained easy- so smart. His name is Loki & very curious !" It sucks because we were suppose to be his furever home / family.""He's good w / teens up , not sure of younger kids. He's just very protective - barks -NO bites - of Mom. He loves the outdoor, needs love , attention,exercise , play & treats & his Hoomans'

11/09/2024

Some have been asking about upcoming holiday hours. In addition to our normal closed days of Friday, Saturday and Sunday, we will be closed on November 25th, 26th and 27th, to prepare for, and celebrate Thanksgiving. In preparation for Christmas, we will be closed December 23rd, 24th and 26th. For New Year's, we will close at noon on December 31st, reopening January 2nd. Enjoying more of the holidays this year!

11/02/2024

This is so true. I truly believe it makes us better people. ❤️

10/25/2024

Dear Fluke's Family, we will be closed for maintenance and updating the week of Oct.28th. Our unit will be made to look (and act) shiny and new! The furangels deserve nothing less!

EDIT: if you have an appointment with me next week to pick up ashes, those appointments still stand. We just won't be doing any Cremations for a week or so. With this said, NO, WE ARE NOT CLOSING THE BUSINESS. Just going upward and forward!

10/13/2024

Something that I wrote for an article years ago. Thought I'd share it here. You are also welcome to share with someone who may need to read it. I hope you all like it. Fluke is the one in the photo.

Saying goodbye – Grieving The Loss of a Pet

Authored by: Linda Desrosier
Owner of Fluke’s Aftercare

For many, the loss of a pet can be as devastating as the loss of a human counterpart. When deciding to invite a furry or feathered being into our home, a commitment has been made for what literally is a lifetime – their lifetime. We bring these wonderful creatures into our lives, caring for their every need of existence. We feed them, bathe them, and make sure that their health is looked after. They naturally become part of our family unit. For those of us lucky enough to enjoy their companionship and unconditional love for 20 years or more, losing them can be truly overwhelming.

The little things that may have been taken for granted such as the clicking of nails on the floor, the jingling of tags, bells, or wheels is one day gone. For someone who has shared a close bond with an animal, this silence can be deafening. Routines and chores that have been established for years are suddenly absent from their lives leaving a sense of confusion.

Oftentimes, owners who have lost a pet feel all alone in their pain and are embarrassed to admit they are overcome with grief for fear that other people won’t understand. Well meaning friends and family members may use such phrases as “it was only a dog or it was only a cat”. While that sentiment may hold true for some, it doesn’t necessarily hold true for others. To them, whether it had four legs, wings, scales or a shell, this animal was a cherished companion, a faithful hunting buddy or perhaps the surrogate child that they could never have. Their hearts only know that they have lost something that they truly cherished in life and it hurts.

Grief is an invisible pain. Unlike a physical injury, we don’t have cuts or bandages visible for those close to us to see. There are many emotions that arise from a loss of a pet. Among them are shock, disbelief, anger and guilt. Especially difficult is the guilt particularly when euthanasia has been involved. It is never easy to cause a heart pain and euthanasia is the greatest act of love that a pet owner can show an ailing pet. “Maybe I could have done more” is one of the most common thoughts. Though it was the right decision to release the pet from pain, suffering and poor quality of life, many owners second-guess their decisions. This, too, can intensify the stress involved when grieving for a pet. The same can also hold true if the pet has died in an accident.

The mourning period can vary from person to person and should not be given a timeline. As we are all individual, so is our level of grief. Some may choose to get another pet in a relatively short matter of time. For them, inviting another pet in the home can prove to be therapeutic and provide comfort. Others may need to wait, as having another pet in their life may prove too painful and provoke too many memories of the pet that has passed. In either case, it is a testimony to the love shared with their pets. A time of mourning is nothing to be ashamed of regardless of the circumstances. Crying is a normal, healthy, coping mechanism and is part of the process of healing. It is nothing to be embarrassed of and helps to release the pent up feelings of the mind, body and heart.

The level of understanding that a pet owner receives when their companion has died is not as widely acceptable as with a human family member. Someone who was sympathetic when grandpa died may not be as supportive when a pet dies. It is important to seek out those who understand and are there for you. Talking is another outlet and an additional healing mechanism. Those who have experienced the loss of a pet themselves are a wonderful resource. You can talk openly about your feelings and by doing so, validate that your feelings are absolutely normal. It is now through us, and in speaking of our pets, that they still live. Pet loss support groups and hot lines have now established themselves throughout the country. On the Internet, there are many wonderful sites dedicated to pet bereavement. There are online candle lighting ceremonies, chat rooms and tribute sites.

As time passes, the grief will lighten but the pain of having a pet absent from your life will always remain. Over time, the memories that bring unbearable pain and tears when your pet is first gone from your life will gently and quietly bring solace to your heart. Remember that although their physical presence is absent, they will always be with you in spirit.

09/17/2024

So true.

09/09/2024

For this week only, we will be closed Thursday along with our usual Friday closure. Calls will be returned on Monday, September 16th. Thank you.

08/28/2024

Through the power of love and memory, our fur angels will always be remembered and cherished in our minds and hearts. Share their photos and stories here, and let us celebrate their unconditional love and honor their legacy together. Sending you all warm hugs and positive thoughts on this special day.

07/18/2024

Final poll results are in. While there were 7 actual votes (43% said keep the curtain, 57% said remove the curtain), there were also many other responses towards removing the curtain. So, for the most part, the curtain will remain down. HOWEVER, if you should need to come see us and do like the curtain, please mention when you call and I'll be happy to put it up for you. Thanks for your helping us accommodate your needs in every way!

07/04/2024

Hope that you are all enjoying your 4th of July. Please remember to keep your furbabies safe and sound at fireworks time. Hugs to all.

Copied from the Dog Lovers page:

Hey Buddy,

I hope you're having the best time in heaven. I wanted to let you know that I climbed up a ladder to bring you this ball. You forgot your favorite ball, but I have it with me, keeping it safe and sound. It’s the same ball you loved to chase around the yard, the one we spent countless hours playing with. I remember how your eyes would light up every time I threw it, and you'd sprint after it with all your energy, your tail wagging furiously.

I miss our playtimes and all the joy you brought into my life. The way you'd nuzzle the ball back to me, eager for another round, always brought a smile to my face. You had this incredible way of making every moment special, turning ordinary days into extraordinary ones with your boundless enthusiasm and love.

I know you're running free and happy now, in endless fields of green, where the sun always shines and there are always friends to play with. Heaven must be the perfect place for you, with all the space to run and plenty of balls to chase. Just remember, every time you catch a ball up there, I’m thinking of you and all the joy you brought into my life.

Until we meet again, keep chasing those heavenly balls and having fun. Know that you're always in my heart, and our memories together will forever be cherished. You were more than just a pet; you were my best friend, my confidant, and my source of endless happiness.

With all my love,
Your Human"

06/20/2024

Just a little notice to let you all know that besides being closed our normal Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, we will also take 4 days vacation from July 1 - 4th. We will reopen for normal business hours on Monday, July 8th. We will be unavailable to take any furangels during this time.

Should you (and we hope not) require our services while we are gone, honestly the very best, and only way to respectfully keep them for a period of time in these summer months would be the use of a chest freezer. Your Veterinarian may be kind enough to let you use theirs until our return if you don't have one available.

Thanks for your understanding as we look forward to some rest & relaxation. 🥰

06/17/2024

Oh goodness. This one hits. Came across my personal timeline.

My Dear Human,
I see that you are crying, for it is my moment to leave. Don't cry, please. I want to explain some things to you.
You're sad because I left, but I'm glad I met you.
How many dogs and cats and birds like me die daily without meeting someone special like you?
I know it saddens you my departure, but I had to go now.
I want to ask you not to blame yourself for anything. I heard you sobbing that you should have done something else for me. Don't say that, you've done a lot for me! Without you I would have known nothing of the beauty I carry with me today.
You must know that we animals live the present intensely and we are very wise: we enjoy every little thing every day, and forget the bad past quickly.
Our lives begin when we know love, the same love you gave me, my angel without wings and two legs.
Know that even if you find an animal that is seriously injured, and that you only have a little bit of time in this world, you provide a huge service by accompanying you in your final transition.
None of us likes to be alone, except when we realize it's time to leave.
Maybe for you it's not so important that one of you is next to us caressing us and holding our paw, helps us go in peace.
No more crying, please. I'll be happy. I have in memory the name you gave me, the warmth of your house that in this time became mine. I take the sound of your voice talking to me, even though I don't always understand what you were saying to me.
I carry in my heart every caress you gave me.
Everything you did was very valuable to me and I thank you endlessly, I don't know how to tell you, because I don't speak your language, but surely in my eyes you could see my gratitude.
I'm just gonna ask for two favors. Wash your face and start smiling.
Remember how good we live together these moments, remember the antics I made to cheer you up.
Relive like me all the good we share in this time.
And do not say you will not adopt another animal, because you have suffered a lot from my departure. Without you I would not live the beauties I lived.
Please don't do this! There are many like me waiting for someone like you.
Give them what you gave me, please, they need it just like I needed you.
Don't keep the love you have to give, for fear of suffering.
Follow my advice, cherish the good you share with each of us, recognizing that you are an angel to us animals, and that without people like you our life would be harder than sometimes it is.
Follow your noble task, now it's up to me to be your angel.
I will accompany you in your path and help you help others like me.
I will talk to other animals who are here with me, I will tell you everything you have done for me and I will point and say proudly: “that's my family.”
Tonight, when you look at the sky and see a blinking star I want you to know that it's me flashing an eye; warning you that I arrived well and telling you "thank you for the love you gave me".
I say goodbye now not saying "goodbye", but "see you later.”
There is a special sky for people like you, the sky where we go and life rewards us by making us meet there.
I'll be waiting for you.

Credit goes to the respective owner 🌷

06/04/2024

More like a public service announcement, but seems very affordable in these tough times so thought I'd share (I have no personal experience or affiliation - please do your research) :

Maine Animal Health Alliance is now offering more affordable Wellness Exams! These exams are on Mondays and start at $50. Extra services/prices are listed on our website. (These exams are NOT for sick/injured pets.)

We look forward to seeing you and your pet!

You may schedule here: https://clinichq.com/online/13aab1d1-fbfd-4d92-8afe-db6f24485385

You may find more info here: https://maineanimalhealth.org/wellness