Sophie's Choice

Bruce and Laura called me when their neighbor discovered their 12-year-old German Shepherd, Sophie, lying down in the woods not far from their farm. 

I could sense a problem in Sophie’s abdomen and liver, so I suggested some food she might be interested in and gave her an energy treatment. She began drinking right away, but was not interested in food.  

By the next day, Sophie’s condition had not changed. I suggested a call to a veterinarian. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, vets were unable to make house calls. The family was told a visit to the vet would involve exploratory surgery.  That felt too invasive and unacceptable.

Sophie was the matriarch in a human family of four—along with another dog, horses, cats, and a peacock. Each member of the family took their time and spoke, wrote, and spent time with Sophie, letting her know how much they love her and that it was okay for her to let go. 

 Sophie died that night. Her passage was peaceful and everyone had the chance to say goodbye.

 Sophie and her life was lovingly celebrated. A coffin was made by hand, and the family created an altar filled with items that reminded them of Sophie, including her bowl, brush, leash, favorite treats, and pictures. They lit a candle every day until there were no more candles left to light.  

The grieving continues—to each in different ways. But what each family member feels is a sense that they did all they could and said what was in their hearts.

——

While the passage of the ones we consider “ours’ is never easy, you made it far less formidable. Sophie left a big hole I our hearts, but it hurts less because of the process you led us through.

—Laura, Sophie’s human,
Martha’s Vineyard, MA