A tribute to Allie of Orleans

Pet Passings is a place to share your memories of your departed pets.

by Bob Fellows, Orleans

I'm sorry to report that Allie, one of our elderly office cats, passed away this morning. Survived by her litter-mate Trevi, Allie suffered a heart attack last week and died in her sleep today. Allie was a sweet, dignified old lady who lived with us at the office for the past two and one half years after we adopted her from the Brewster Animal Rescue League. She was very gentle and enjoyed sharing affection with anyone who would let her invade their workspace. The Rule of Allie is that she expanded to fill all possible keyboard and mouse space. If one did not make space for Allie, she made it herself by knocking everything upon one's desk onto the floor - or biting until one complied with her regal demands. In the accompanying picture, one can see Allie's typical pose on my desk. Note that she is lying on top of my trackball, where she would remain until her demand for attention was satisfied.

The poem below was sent to me by Pat Brooks in 2002 when Elizabeth died during cancer surgery. Saturday I re-discovered it and passed it on to another bereaved pet owner. It is most appropriate in this case, as anyone who witnessed Allie's last few days would appreciate:

Weep not for me though I am gone into that gentle night.
Grieve if you will, but not for long upon my soul's sweet flight.
I am at peace, my soul's at rest.
There is no need for tears.
For with your love I was so blessed.For all those many years.
There is no pain, I suffer not,The fear now all is gone.
Put now these things out of your thoughts,In your memory I live on.
Remember not my fight for breathRemember not the strife.
Please do not dwell upon my death,
But celebrate my life.[Constance Jenkins, 1992]

Rest well, m'lady. Regards to all,Bob Fellows, Orlean

Do you have a tribute to a dearly departed pet you'd like to share? Just email your words and photos to us at info@ecape.com and we'll be happy to feature it in Pet Passings.