For anyone who has ever been blessed to have the love of a pet, they can bring us countless joy, unconditional acceptance, and can cause us heartbreaking grief when they pass on. A reporter for USA Today recently shared his love and grief over the loss of his siamese cat, Sinatra. Read his story and watch the video of how Sinatra made life better for his family, and how Sinatra’s absence has left a hole in the family. Please post your story here of how your pet (current or former) has changed your life for the better.

© 2000 Allie Phillips

For me, Chyna was my rock throughout the growing pains of my 20’s. Rescued from an animal control shelter in mid-Michigan, she was by my side through constant change. She provided unconditional love and support as I graduated from college, lost the great love of my life, through law school by night while working full time by day, becoming a prosecuting attorney and being exposed to the worst forms of human conduct, all the while searching to discover who I was (both personally and professionally). When she became paralyzed at the age of 10 through an undetected and untreatable heart disease, I had to make a devastating decision to let her go. I don’t think I’ve ever been the same (though my house is now filled with the pitter patter of Oscar, Lucy & Sammy). What Chyna taught me was that no matter what was happening in my life, I could always find someone (her) to give me comfort or to make me laugh. September 19th was the 12th year of her passing. Like others who have loved and lost a pet, they are never forgotten and the lessons they taught us will live forever.