Raccoon Time Again

So some poor chap over at the Doctor Who Forum has had to have his dog put to sleep. And as always in the Leisure Hive, the community has rallied with support. But two things in particular have caused a fly to fly right into my bloody eyes, don't you know. Both of them .. one then the other ... darned flies

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting s of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

If it should be, that I grow frail and weak
And pain should keep me from my sleep,
Then will you do, what must be done?
For the last battle cannot be won.

You will be sad, I understand,
But don't let grief, then stay your hand,
For on this day, more than the rest,
Your love and friendship, must stand the test.

We have had so many happy years,
When the time comes, hold back your fears
You wouldn't want me to suffer so,
Please, won't you please, let me go?

Take me where to my needs they'll tend,
Only, stay with me until the end
And hold me close and speak to me
Until my eyes no longer see.

I know in time you will agree
It is a kindness you do to me.
Although my tail its last has waved,
From pain and suffering I have been saved.

Don't grieve that it must be you
Who has to decide this thing to do;
We've been so close, we two, these years,
Don't let your heart hold any tears.

And knowing, that at 12 years old, this day is closer for young Smeagol than its ever been, breaks my heart. He had an operation on his ear over a year ago ... and now he scratches it a lot and once in a while it seems to be upsetting him ... and I have been making all kinds of excuses about it not being a problem and him just using to get attention (which, to be fair, he does actually do sometimes as it clears up the moment I get out of my chair to feed the little bugger) .. but I am terrified of getting it looked at ... just in case they tell me its the end.