What a heart breaking story. and choice to have to make. I can totally imagine how you felt, having just had to put Merlin down. He was looking at me as I cradled his head in my hands...It's still pretty raw. Such a terrible experience. I don't know what it must be like not being able to be there though. I think maybe that's better and worse at the same time.
Death is the counterpoint to life and you're right, time with a pet is joyous, but the pain of loss is almost always accompany it. Tragic really.
I'm glad you guys found the courage to bring Holly into your lives, and whilst at some stage you will lose her too, you have the good times to look forward to also.
!ENGAGE 25