Why We Need to Take Pet Loss Seriously

I was devastated when my parrot died. I called his name and he would fly downstairs to find me. When I ate dinner I had to make a plate for him. He was such a friendly pet, and still regret not having him around.
He made the planets align for me.

Huge fear of mine, losing pets while I’m away on orders. Only happened once, while another happened the day before departure. Still have 8 pets, so I’m not looking forward to the loss again, though I’m so thankful for my wife who lovingly cares for them while I have to be away. I’ve told her several times, doing that for them is sometimes...oftentimes, literally the only way I can leave to go do what I have to do. Some of them have been with me through a bachelors, commissioning, a masters, a residency, four promotions, a dissertation and doctorate, and five moves, they’re family!