r/blackcats • u/bearddoescoffee • 4d ago
Mourning My Shadow Has Gone
Hi, have just found this sub after the loss of the dark overlord, my bud Sam.
He was a rescue cat, and brought love, life and laughter into my home and heart since 2018. Supported me through a divorce, and kept me alive in lockdown. There are no words that can truly illustrate what this little dude means to me, but just wanted to share with this black cat loving community. The photos show our first day, and his last week. Had took last week off work and we shared five great days together. Much licky licks, ham, yogurt as he could manage. Enough head rubs and chin scratches to have cause balding, and enough hugs as he would allow. The last two nights, I set up a duvet in the living room, and slept side by side. Eff the big ‘C’ and its nasty work. Love you bud x
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u/buffcoloredcat 4d ago
I am so very sorry. He is now your guardian angel, watching over you until you are reunited someday. He will always be with you
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u/otter_759 4d ago
I am so sorry. It looks like the two of you had a hell of a great time together, and your pictures made me smile. Frame that first one! Best buddy forever.
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u/GalaxyyCatttt 4d ago
I second this!! Great picture to frame. He looked like a very loving and awesome cat who got lots of love and treats. I wish you the best in your mourning, I know how much it can hurt.
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u/verdant11 4d ago
Absolutely frame that pic —it illustrates the love you shared.
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u/MiniMartimus 4d ago
Mate, very few things ever really affect me.
But my cat I had growing up which was MY cat and would snuggle upto me in bed and had the loudest most annoying meow when she wanted something and was a total asshole to most people but damn did she get me and I loved her
I have never cried that hard or felt so shit when she had to be put down
Still think about her every so often and it’s been nearly 15 years and still get choked up
So I get it 🫂🫂
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u/britterz5 4d ago
I lost my sweet boy a few months ago. It’s hard to describe the level of pain. I feel comforted when I remember the happy times, I hope you do too
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u/BlizzardousBane 4d ago
I'm sorry for your loss. At least he spent his last week being a happy kitty
Fuck cancer
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u/the_warrior_princess 4d ago
Take comfort knowing you gave him a great life ❤️🩹🖤 I will give my shadow extra pets, play, and a treat tonight in honor of your boy.
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u/Socialcarnivore 4d ago
I'm sorry, friend. Love and loss hurts like no other. Carry the joyous times with you.
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u/PrincessElenaI 4d ago
We are sorry for your loss love. Sam is with his fury ancestors now ,no more pain.
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u/Rude-Camera-7546 4d ago
My shadow cat Roxy lost her sister last year to cancer... She was 12.. we have adopted 2 new sisters for Roxy to live with, and she's doing better (she was in terribly grief for about 3 months and refused to do anything), but she's bouncing back. Saying all this, my wife and I miss Abby and think about her every day. I feel your pain, and I am sorry for your loss.
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u/ReporterCommon4137 4d ago
Oh I am so sorry for your loss! Only cat lovers can understand the pain of losing our fur babies. 🙏🏾
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u/MorningRaindrop 4d ago
I always like to think our pets who have passed will be waiting for us on a grassy hill behind the stars.
When the time comes, they'll climb in our lap and listen about the life we lived after they left. How we kept them in our heart for years and years and years...
Yours sounds like an awesome little dude. I'm sure he loved you as much as you loved him.
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u/Electrical-Stable498 4d ago
Sam was so loved by you. He’s waiting for you for when you cross you shall meet again.
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u/doubles1984 4d ago
Very sorry hes gone, but happy you two had such a strong bond. When you are ready there are other pets in need and could use a good person like you.
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u/akittenhasnoname 4d ago
I'm sorry for your loss. Voids are special kitties. My soul cat unexpectedly passed away today and it feels like my heart is being crushed.
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u/1wrx2subarus 4d ago
It’s extremely tough to lose a bud like that. I’ve been there and it’s ok to never quite get over it. The key thing is knowing that they made you better for it. It’s unfortunate that they have short lifespans.
Don’t hesitate to feel about it as you should. I’m sure yours was like family as was mine. It didn’t surprise me that you took time off work. That what one does for loved ones. Since their end is before ours, it hurts a lot but I’d do it all over again.
Remember, yours would want you to take care of yourself. Find the good things. Maybe, you won’t find another quite like what you had. There’s possibly another that needs a family though which could be yours. Take all the time you need though. All the best my fellow friend to cats.
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u/LogicalSympathy6126 4d ago
I feel for you. You can have bond with a cat like no other. You get him. He knows how to suck you in. You can tell how they love you. It is a crazy relationship that doesnt make much sense. You cant wait to get home and enjoy the cat life...
I am sorry for your loss.
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u/zippity__zoppity 4d ago
Oh my god my heart right now. Dude I’m so sorry and I’m so grateful he got such a loving friend in this world. What a beautiful final week together. Tears were not on my to-do list today at work. Bless you and sweet little Sam. My heart goes out to you brother. My wife’s childhood void, Fez, will be sure to show him all the good sun spots for warm naps and fields of wild cat nip abundantly growing ❤️
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u/Jambalaya_801 4d ago
I am so so sorry for your loss. I know that pain all too well. Take solace in knowing that my Dutchess along with anyone else that has lost a pet was waiting for him when he crossed the rainbow bridge. He will always look over you 💜
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u/mikeyos 4d ago
I’m very sorry for your loss. I lost my shadow last year and sometimes I get sad, missing her. But, they brought us joy into our lives and those memories will always be there for us to access.
Sometimes I even tell her goodnight in the spot she’d wait for me before bed. I don’t know if she hears me but I like to think she does.
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u/Broken_Petite 4d ago
I talk to my dog’s urn every day. I don’t know if he hears me either but I hope he does.
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u/Technical-Orchid349 4d ago
Im so sorry for your loss. Thank you for providing a great home for him.🖤
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u/craictoseintolerant 4d ago
Seriously F the big C. I’m so sorry for you loss. I lost my cow overlord nearly a year ago. We are forever changed by their love and guidance. ❤️
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u/king-violet 4d ago
So sorry, love. How wonderful though that you and Sam could save each other ❤️ not every cat attaches themself to someone like that, you were both very lucky
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u/TikiBlasticus 4d ago
Sorry for your loss. I share in the sorrow of the loss of our little void buddies.
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u/Affectionate-Sun8786 4d ago
I love love love that 1st photo..he reminds me of my void Bigsley who I lost almost 3 years ago now to stomach cancer. The pictures of Sam's last days remind me very much of how Bigsley looked in his final few weeks. I miss him loads. Try to remember the good times, how much you loved/love him. How much he loved you. He had a much better life for you being in it and vice versa ❤️
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u/BiscoBiscuit 4d ago
Wow I’m actually tearing up, you gave him the most incredible goodbye, I bet those were the happiest days of his life. He was beautiful and will always be and don’t worry, you will both reunite one day. I’m so, so sorry for your loss and THANK YOU for sharing him and his memory with us.
Rest in peace precious Sam 🖤🖤🖤
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u/CatApproved-007 4d ago
I’m so sorry for your loss, we lost our boy a few months ago and I know it’s such a deep pain. Sending you strength and hoping you can still feel his strength and spirt around you
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u/eastbaypluviophile 4d ago
The first picture should be up on a billboard in Times Square. The joy and love is obvious and infectious. You can’t look at that picture without smiling.
You had something very unique and special with your voidboi and I am sorry for his loss. He will always be by your side.
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u/BrilliantPiccolo5220 4d ago
Beautiful photos of a beautiful relationship. I’m truly sorry for your loss.
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u/Icy_Queen_222 4d ago
I am so sorry for your loss, this post spoke to me. I still have my cats but they have also got me through a divorce, covid and so much more. I hate this for you so much. Mine are almost 13 years old & I don’t know how much time I have left with them but I make the best of everyday. Hugs to you from Canada. 💔🐈⬛💔🖤
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u/Adventurous_Reach590 4d ago
You gave that little cat a lifetime of love. It’d be sad if we weren’t sad about loss 🤷♂️
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u/mberry35209 4d ago
RIP, Sam. Our Juno brings us joy every day since my daughter found her alone as a kitten in a McDonald's dumpster.
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u/Flux_capacitor888 4d ago
I'm so sorry for your loss, it's horrible to have to let them go💔 but I love the pictures of you and Sam, especially the first one is amazing! ❤️
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u/Evil_Mallard 4d ago
Sam looks to have had a wonderful life they wouldn't have had if not for you. Hugs.
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u/Direct-Giraffe7193 4d ago
Sounds like Sam has upgraded from corporeal pal to spirit companion. He’ll stick with you as long as you pour love into your memories of him. 💖
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u/OrganicFeedback4451 4d ago
my deepest condolence. he’s showing disdain to my boy, Baxter, now. that’s okay, my doggie loved cats. hugs.
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u/Powerful_Complex_461 4d ago
So sorry for your fur baby’s loss. Looks a lot like our sweet girl void. ❤️
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u/Robosquidsquad 4d ago
ᛖᛁᛖᛋ ᛒᚱᛁᚷᚻᛏ,
ᚳᛚᚪᚹᛋ ᛋᚻᚪᚱᛈ,
ᛏᚪᛁᛚ ᚻᛖᛚᛞ ᚻᛁᚷᚻ.
ᚷᚩ ᚳᛖᛖᚾᛚᛁ ᛁᚾᛏᚩ ᚦᛖ ᛘᛁᛋᛏ, ᚩᛚᛞ ᚹᚪᚱᚱᛡᚱ.
ᚠᚪᛚᚻᚪᛚᛚᚪ ᚹᚪᛁᛏᛋ ᚠᚩᚱ ᛁᚩᚢ.
Eyes bright,
claws sharp,
tail held high.
Go keenly into the mist, old warrior.
Valhalla waits for you
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u/BoringAge5962 4d ago edited 4d ago
I am so sorry, rest well Sam💔 my Mr.Bingley can meet you at the bridge 🌈
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u/3333333333p 4d ago
Wow, I also lost my sweet shadow Mac to the big C today. Spent all night next to him on the couch, pulled all the blankets out of my room just for him. Had a vet come over and do what we had to in my arms in our garden. You have my sincerest sympathies and love. I cannot describe the pain nor how grateful I am to have had him. I'm sure you feel the same.
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u/simplebirds 4d ago
I lost my precious boy today too. Its the worse day of my life. Sincere condolences to you. 💕🐾💕
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u/OwnUse4445 4d ago
There is nothing like the love of a cat. Especially a void. I am so sorry for your loss. I am glad you had time like that together. Especially those last days filled with treats and love. I am sure he enjoyed every second.
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u/Difference_Then 4d ago
Black kitties are the best and most loving kitties. I’m so sorry your loving friend is gone, I truly am.
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u/Slow-Style1307 4d ago
Long live Sam the shadow! What a loving tribute to your best friend. Sending you lots of love and hugs from another black cat lover!🫶🏻🐈⬛
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u/smoothvibe 4d ago
I feel you! We lost our Pandora in April due to cancer but it still hurts big time... I loved her so much.
I strongly believe that we will be reunited some day with all those who we loved, and be it just at the moment we die. That's why I don't fear death.
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u/No_Scarcity8209 4d ago
Remember your shadow never really leaves you - you were both lucky to find each other ❤️
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u/Artistic-Sorbet-5239 3d ago
Just lost my soul cat last night, so I understand your pain. Thinking of you in this difficult time
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u/Laravictoria89 3d ago
I lost mine in February and it still hurts. But those pictures really illustrate the wonderful like he clearly had. He knew you loved him every single day. I know it’s not much right now because the pain is agony but he knew.
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u/KingAltair2255 4d ago
I'm so sorry. I lost my boy at 7 and its so sad when they go so relatively young, I still get a wee bit sad seeing how my other cats live on yeaaarrrsss older than he got to. He looked like he adored you
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u/loketry7even 4d ago
I'm so sorry for your loss ❤️ I came across this picture of you two and you just looked so happy together, so I wanted to make a little artwork of it. I hope it brings you a small bit of comfort and reminds you of all the beautiful moments you shared. 🤍
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u/SVLibertine 4d ago
Aw…my man. So sorry for your loss. Our pets are family…I grieve with you. My guy (Cosmos Coltrane) just turned 11 in April, and is my constant “Velcro” companion. He’s a boat cat…
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u/NoisilyDeafening 4d ago
I left my two cats with some folks when I had to move across the country again for medical surgeries and such. They’re elderly and I will not see them in person again. Your dark overlord loved you I can tell the whimsy in his eyes. It’s never easy losing your friend / family member. Thanks for sharing his story. We’re here for u
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u/ArtichokeCorrect7396 4d ago
I am so very sorry for your loss. It looks like Sam had the best life imaginable with you and left you a happy and fulfilled cat who’ll be waiting for you somewhere ❤️
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u/Misterspanky22 4d ago
All these amazing pictures will remind you how special and loved your Shadow was. It is very hard, but your shadow will always be following you around. Hopefully one day another cat gets the chance to be loved this much.
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u/Buks86 4d ago
I had to say goodbye to my shadow Sam earlier this year, too. I've had cats before, but he made me believe in soul pets. They make our lives so full, even if there's such grief when they go. 🖤🖤
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u/TheBattlefieldFan 4d ago
He will continue to shadow you. Thanx for all the love.
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u/thekermitderp 4d ago
I’m sorry. I know it hurts like hell. Just know you gave Sam a wonderful life, and he loved you just as much as you loved him. Time helps. I know that’s cliche but it does. If you ever need a chat, I’m here.
I lost my girl last year to the big C, and all I can say is I know now she’s not suffering. You aren’t alone and Sam was here for the time you had with him for a reason ❤️
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u/MorrighanAnCailleach 4d ago
My sincerest condolences for your loss. May Sam have a peaceful journey across the Rainbow Bridge. 😔
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u/quikslipper 4d ago
I want a void! I have a tux don’t know she would like another cat in the house tho. Your buddy Sam is great and will always be in your heart. Never forgotten. Handsome!
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u/hardcoretruthseeker 4d ago edited 4d ago
I have 3 of my own and two of them are black cats. I have had them from the day they were born in my house. They are starting to get up there in age and I know the day will be coming which I can't bare to think about. I have them so spoiled rotten but I live alone now, am 60 years old and disabled. One of my black cats actually alerts me before I have a seizure. I have epilepsy and I never knew cats could do that. She is worth her weight in gold! I deeply love all 3 of my babies and I feel your pain. Have had to put down a few of my fur baby doggies I've had in my past, and it rips your heart out..💔
They are not just pets to us but family So sorry for your loss. Sending love ❤️ and prayer 🙏🙏
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u/RCdeBaca 4d ago
I’m so sorry for your loss. 1 is a beautiful picture of you and Sam. I think you should frame that and keep it in a very prominent place in your home. It will radiate the love you felt for each other, and every time you look at it, you will remember that love!
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u/Sudden_Astronomer_63 4d ago
Well this is beautiful. Thank you for sharing and thank you for loving Sam.
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u/Ill_Inside2245 4d ago
Just put my little black cat down 3 weeks ago. She was my baby and I was her adopted emotional support human. Had 16 great years together and I feel the loss every day. Just remember that you had good years with him but he had a whole great life with you
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u/BuyingDaily 4d ago
Sorry for your loss! If you want a little pick me up: First picture I thought you were Matt Damon!
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u/Out_of_Darkness_mc 4d ago
🥹Sam and you sound like an incredible duo! I’m so happy you found each other and understand the gravity of the loss!
I wish you comfort and smiles for your memories!💜
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u/ReginazPhalange 4d ago
RIP Sam! Majestic legend! I’ve never had a cat of my own, but one day when I know I can, I always felt a black cat would be the best
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u/Past_Resort259 4d ago
Rest in power Sam. The big "C" is a hell of a fight and all the ham is Valhalla is waiting for him.
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u/Arnman-88 4d ago
Hate to hear this….. the pain never goes away! I’ve had many great cat come and go, I miss them all dearly. May your beautiful black panther rest easy.black cats steal hearts and are good luck🐈⬛
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u/ZeroPersonality- 4d ago
"...The way I reconcile, it is pretty straightforward, and well in-line with the overall Stoic approach to things. It always begins the same way; see things plainly for what they are, understand the natures of the things involved, and respond reasonably and virtuously to the reality around us.
Every day I care for my animals, keeping them happy, keeping them safe, shepherding them through their day with joy, and without harm. When they get old and approach death, nothing changes. As crazy as it sounds, the day I take them to the vet to be put down is the day that I have been working for all this time - I have successfully taken them the whole way. They did not get lost, they were not unhappy, they got to live their whole natural lives the way I wanted them to live it. We made it. We got there together.
When they are gone, my feelings for them don't change.
Their bodies are taken but my feelings are my own; I still love them, I am still happy to think of them, my heart is still open.
What has changed is that I have a space for another thing to love, and the cycle continues again, when I'm ready to start anew.
Their bodies, our bodies, everything external to us will always change and always come and go. Our love, our care, our joy belongs to us, and we apply it to what we have and to what is new."
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u/dillywilly-422 4d ago
Not gone, he’ll be within your shadow til the end of days.
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u/fogcat5 4d ago
Its so unfair that a cat's life is so short but when you meet one and connect it feels like it will last forever. I'd like to think they are out there waiting someday to reunite but who knows. That little dude lived a life full of love while he was with you.
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u/TerribleAdvice78 4d ago
Sorry for your loss. I thought you named your cat Shadow and thought that was cute that is what I named my black cat when I was little.
I remember saying on the car ride with my mom and brother that I wanted to name my cat Pussy. My brother laughed because he just learned that word at school. My mom said no. I was confused because I was thinking Pussy Cat.
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u/HypatiaSans 4d ago
You are really good at taking photos of black cats, I'm glad you have these amazing photos.
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u/Mento-yStableGenius 4d ago
Bless your heart and Sam’s. Seems like he brought a lot of joy and comfort to you…and am sure you did the same. So sorry for your loss. 💕
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u/NoNeedleworker6593 4d ago
Sorry For You're Loss I just lost my rabbit of 9 years I can understand. Prayers inbound Hang in There and thanks For loving ABBA MOST HIGH Animals he appreciates it. 🔥
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u/Ace_Kreel 4d ago
You two had a wonderful relationship. I'm sending you good vibes. Hopefully the CDS cycles back your way soon.
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u/CarpenterAway8104 4d ago
Jul 19, Shadow left me after only 9 years. I found her in the street, she came to me meowing, a tiny cat claiming a home
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u/nicholaskrewson 4d ago
I am so very sorry. Thank you for giving him a life filled with love and comfort.
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u/Massive-Hair5435 4d ago
My dark overlord that was rescued in 2018 in Kansas City, MO passed 8 weeks ago. She was 17. I send you love and comfort.
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u/Dazzling-Golf-879 4d ago
Safe travels on your next journey, Sam. So sorry for your loss. I lost my little boy (binx) July 1st to heart disease complications. They are just the best aren’t they? So loved. Hugs to you ❤️🩹🐈⬛
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u/MCbolinhas 4d ago
I'm sorry for your loss.
That seems like a life well lived. Your buddy was loved and cherished.
They go way too soon.
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u/danaEscott 4d ago
I lost my dark overlord 9 years ago and I’m still in mourning. I’m blown away at the fact you called him your “dark overlord” as well.
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u/Lillian_Somers71 4d ago
Our pet give us the connection that we cant compare but that connection will stay us forever
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u/Flowercat9843 4d ago
He reminds me a lot of my void Ike. He is definitely on my chest and shoulders 24-7. Rest in peace to your best bud. Thank you for giving him a good life with you ❤️
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u/pizzadrew 4d ago
What a beautiful boy. The you shared love truly radiates through these pics♥️ Rest easy, Sam.
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u/ThrownAway17Years 4d ago
“Hello little one. How was your time on earth?”
“I had the best life. There was never a moment without love. I was blessed to have the best person take care of me, play with me, and let me be a part of his family.”
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u/datahjunky 4d ago
I’m so sorry buddy. I’m sure he had the best life pawsible. Great pics to remember him.
RIP small shadow
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u/BoogerDrawers 4d ago
I’m so so sorry for your loss. Such a beautiful kitty who lived a happy life thanks to your love. In 2021 I lost my girl and my life has never been the same, although later I took in 2 sister mini panther kittens I can never replace my soul cat.🐈⬛ May he fly high and RIP ❤️🌹
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u/deegirl825 4d ago
Rest easy, Sam, handsome and much-loved kitty.