NOTE: Be sure to read through to end of this post to see how you can win a signed copy of Jon Katz’ new book! Also see how you can win a set of Frankie the Walk ‘N Roll Dog Halloween magnets!
Yup, that’s me in the front row as the director of the WI Humane Society is introduction author Jon Katz (my mom is next to me putting her books under her chair).
A few years ago I was fortunate enough to see Jon in Milwaukee also and sat right in the front row… and I was just as excited to be in the front row once again.
I thought it would be sad when he talked about pet grief, but I actually walked out of the talk feeling lighter and even more grateful for life and death. Jon has a wonderful sense of humor and shared some funny stories with us before touching on the subject of the death of our beloved pets.
One question an audience member asked was if Jon would address the subject of how we tell a child about the death of a pet. I appreciated his answer as he said, “Don’t lie to your child.” He said in his research he talked with many adults who still had resentment towards their parents for not telling them about the death of an animal when they were a child. He talked about making a special photo album with your child of the pet, or perhaps a memorial service to help your child.
He shared with us that each of his dogs have taught him something in his life- something he needed to learn at the time. Tears sprang to my eyes as he said that as I could relate, as I think so many of us can.
One important thing I felt he shared was that no one knows our pets better than we do. Only we can do what we feel is best when a pet is diagnosed with a terminal illness or when it is time to euthanize them. He said so many people feel so much guilt over this, but they shouldn’t. Yes, it is one of the hardest things we have to do, but he said an animal does not fear death, nor do they worry about it. They come into the world when they need to and then leave when it is their time.
He does not feel their is a heaven for pets… but I’m not so sure about that one. Though I understood what he was saying. I want there to be a heaven where our pets are there waiting for us, but do I know that 100% for sure? No, I don’t. But when I lose a pet, it is what helps get me through my grieving process believing I will see them again some day.
So in honor of all the pets that gone before us I am giving away a copy of Jon’s new book, which is autographed by Jon.
All you have to do to enter is:
Leave a note in the comments section: “In memory of (and name of your pet)” or “In honor of (and name of your pet). I’ll choose a name at random from all the entries. Drawing will be on Friday, Oct. 14, 2011.
Another giveaway I am doing is through DogTipper.com. I am giving away a set of Frankie the Walk ‘N Roll Dog Halloween magnets, so be sure to stop over to DogTipper site to enter. That contest runs through Wed. October 19th.
Both giveaways open to the US and Canada only. Magnets and book giveaway will be shipped to winners week of October 23rd.