Respectful palliative care - end of life pets

General discussion, particularly exploring the Dharma in the modern world.
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Pårl
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Respectful palliative care - end of life pets

Post by Pårl »

Good afternoon,
This is a post I take little pleasure in writing. My beloved "zen" cat, Lilja, who has been my constant companion through thick and then, has been diagnosed with untreatable cancer. I am trying to make her life as happy and fulfilled as it can be, and she is still my shadow. I know things will get worse, and there will be a day when she is no more. What is the correct way to handle her after her passing? Is there a commonly practised tradition?
Sorry for the sad post.
Paul.
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Matt J
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Re: Respectful palliative care - end of life pets

Post by Matt J »

My go to has always been a simple zhitro practice, if you do Tibetan type practices.
"The world is made of stories, not atoms."
--- Muriel Rukeyser
avatamsaka3
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Re: Respectful palliative care - end of life pets

Post by avatamsaka3 »

In terms of customs, that would depend on which tradition you rely on. Other than customs, contemplate the impermanent quality of all beings. And if you've cared for her well for a long time, you did your job. You did the main thing you could do. Then, at the right time, let go. I'm sure there are many other cats in need of a home. You can make their lives better too.
White Lotus
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Re: Respectful palliative care - end of life pets

Post by White Lotus »

I’m sorry.
in any matters of importance. dont rely on me. i may not know what i am talking about. take what i say as mere speculation. i am not ordained. nor do i have a formal training. i do believe though that if i am wrong on any point. there are those on this site who i hope will quickly point out my mistakes.
muni
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Re: Respectful palliative care - end of life pets

Post by muni »

:heart:

Make it her comfortable, to avoid pain, fear.
Be calm, loving, sing mantra, stroke her, to support you both.

Temporary bodies are passing.
Her actually nature does not die.

Pray that she can realize nature.

Love to you and your little friend.
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Pårl
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Re: Respectful palliative care - end of life pets

Post by Pårl »

Many thanks to you all for your kind, considered and helpful insights.

Matt J , where would I find a simple zhitro text? Sorry if this is a silly question. :?:
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Matt J
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Re: Respectful palliative care - end of life pets

Post by Matt J »

You'd have to get it from whatever lineage you're involved in. I was lucky enough to connect with Namkhai Norbu, who transmitted a simple practice. I think Tara Mandala still transmits it.

Here is some FPMT stuff that might be useful:

https://fpmt.org/death/

Here is a practice anyone can do:

https://static1.squarespace.com/static/ ... friend.pdf


Paul2020 wrote: Sat Jul 10, 2021 2:04 pm Many thanks to you all for your kind, considered and helpful insights.

Matt J , where would I find a simple zhitro text? Sorry if this is a silly question. :?:
"The world is made of stories, not atoms."
--- Muriel Rukeyser
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Pårl
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Re: Respectful palliative care - end of life pets

Post by Pårl »

Sadly, my long-term soul companion passed away this afternoon. My pet cat Lilja.

I feel like a light inside me has been extinguished.

What buddhist practice will help me with my grief?

Equally, how do I best pray for departed little friend?
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Pårl
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Re: Respectful palliative care - end of life pets

Post by Pårl »

I went for a long walk this morning - and answered my own question, I think.

I programmed my insight timer app for a 1 hour silent meditation this evening and tomorrow.

After reflection and some earlier suggestions, I'm looking into fostering shelter cats for a while to help as many living beings as I can. I will doubtless end up adopting...

Hope this thread is ultimately useful to others who lose their life companion.

:namaste:
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