I have been waffling the last few weeks, feeling a little overwhelmed yet again by the state of the world. However, it wasn’t until this past weekend, when I received one of *those* messages -- the messages you dread and things really fall apart. A very good friend of mine had passed. I felt the weight of grief, the denial of fact, and a wave of sadness mirrored by tears. And luckily, friends were there for each other, for him, for his family, and again, my puppers gave me great consolation.

They say that dogs can help assuage depression, provide comfort (cats too! Heck, all pets, amirite!?), and help us to choose to “stick around.” How I only wish that were true 100% of the time. I can’t imagine leaving my pets permanently, and I often think about those who have passed from COVID after months in the hospital, they probably missed their pets too. Sure, sure, humans were missed, but so many of us rely on that unconditional friendship that comes with a sweet face and a silent strength.

While it seems like a gloomy post, I assure you it is more grateful that I still have Kitty and Little Coconut to give snuggles and treats to, to play with, and to love. I hope you have that in your life as well.

So what am I reading? Well, here’s big news: Petco is no longer selling “shock” collars. Good for them! Naturalist Sy Montgomery is interviewed by Rover, and she says the compassion our animals evoke is what makes us better people. Animals That Owe Me Money would be a great gift, especially for those of us who like to demand our pets get jobs to help chip in on the rent. And since Halloween is coming up, look at these creeps!

Finally, this video made my day. A little light in a weary world.

❤️

Stay safe and sane,
MPCC xx

Table Scraps: On Love & Loss