Anyone who has
ever lost a special companion animal can experience an
unimaginable level of grief and pain. This happened to
me last December when the love of my life, Chrissie,
suddenly died of fungal pneumonia.
After the initial shock my first thoughts turned to
how to treat her crossing over with the maximum level
of dignity and respect for her physical body. I had
always known she would be cremated since I want my
ashes to be mixed with hers when my time comes to join
her once again.
Also, I couldn't’t imagine turning this responsibility
over to someone or some facility I did not know. In
fact, I did not want anyone else to be with her physical
body throughout this process except me.
I asked the clinic where she died for references.
Fortunately they knew of Guardian Animal Aftercare
in Sun Valley, CA. After studying their website I contacted
the manager, Andre Lehr, introduced myself, and told
her of my wishes. She could not have been any more
helpful. We arranged for Chrissie to have a private
cremation that Saturday and I drove down from Santa
Barbara in the morning.
Thinking back on that most difficult period I can
honestly say that the one bright spot was the four
hours I spent at Guardian Animal Aftercare. Chrissie’s
body never left my side and I was allowed to be a caring
participant during the entire process.
The environment at Guardian is compassionate, comfortable
and respectful. All the employees are caring people
who want their clients’ visits there to be the
positive experience I had. I can recommend this wonderful
organization without reservation to anyone. Their broad
range of cremation options offers everyone an opportunity
to say goodbye to their beloved one in the manner best
suited for each individual.
Dwight |
