Marla's Final Days

Kim called me about Marla, her nine-year-old German Shepard who had been diagnosed with cancer in the abdomen. The cancer has spread into her kidneys and gall bladder. Marla hadn’t eaten in several days. She was weak, and needed assistance in getting up to walk.

Marla, like most of our beloved souls, felt strongly about caring for her family. She worried for her family. Would she be letting them down? Would they be ok without her?

Understanding how Marla felt—both physically and emotionally—I suggested that Kim and her daughter, Ashlyn, write a letter to Marla. I provided an outline for them to follow. When the letter was complete, they each read it back to Marla.

Later that day, I heard back from Kim. The impact of the letters was profound. Marla was able to get up and walk slowly on her own. She also began eating again—a few treats, some sliced turkey, and two hot dogs. Kim was absolutely amazed.

Marla carried on like this the next day, but on the third day, she couldn’t get up, and cried when trying to move. It was now clear to Kim and Ashlyn what to do. They both had written their letters to Marla voicing their feelings and love. This next step was up to Marla.

They soon made arrangements with a vet to help Marla pass. They assembled an alter for her, and as part of their ceremony, released a balloon with a heartfelt note honoring the love and devotion to their beloved dog.

The process of writing and reading the letter to Marla did not take away the pain, but it helped Kim and her daughter in the grieving process.