Bruce & Sharon,
We have not had a loving pet in many years. But the two we did have, a cat for 18 years, and later a little Parakeet for 6, when the cat past away and the Parakeet flew away, we surely felt the loss. Each of them were such a joy to have in our lives. Strange how a Parakeet could bond so tightly with us.
I am sorry to read of your loss and hope you will find a new furry friend one day soon to fill your hearts with that kind of joy again.
Ron