r.i.p little dude

i am sad to report that thursday morning i had to take our dear moose to the vet to be put down. he had been ill for days and was having trouble moving on his own and breathing. i could not let him linger in pain so i let him go. i am better for having loved him. he will be missed. r.i.p little dude, you brought a smile to everyone who met you.

For all animals:

Blessed are you, Lord God,
maker of all living creatures.
On the fifth and sixth days of creation,
you called forth fish in the sea,
birds in the air and animals on the land.
You inspired St. Francis to call all animals
his brothers and sisters.
We ask you to bless this animal.
By the power of your love,
enable it to live according to your plan.
May we always praise you
for all your beauty in creation.
Blessed are you, Lord our God, in all your creatures! Amen.

For a sick animal:

Heavenly Father,
you created all things for your glory
and made us stewards of this creature.
If it is your will, restore it to health and strength.
Blessed are you, Lord God,
and holy is your name for ever and ever. Amen.