In a way losing a pet is like losing a son or daughter. I mean it's not as bad as that, but it can be near that. I heard and believe that because our pets always rely on us humans that is similar to losing a person we are caring for, just as it is harder on a caretaker when the person passes they are taking care of, it's harder to lose a pet for some of the same reasons. My wife and I lost our 13 year old Australian Healer Jack just about a year ago and I still want to bawl when I think of him.. I don't think non pet owners can understand. My sympathies Alan.