Making a pet's last days count

[Catherine]

Jasper my Gopher Snake has been looking old lately. He is an old man.  I have known he is dying for a few months. 
I check on him regularly and make sure he is okay.  This morning before I left for work, I stopped and spoke to Jasper for a bit. I told him why I chose him and how much I cared and how beautiful I have always thought he was. I said the things I have thought about all these years.

As far as I can tell, Jasper died quietly just after I left. I am glad I said those things. Jasper was a very fine snake and I wanted to give him a good life. I loved and respected him and I am glad I finally told him.