The Mary T. and
Frank L. Hoffman
Family Foundation
and All-Creatures.Org

Letters and Responses

I would like to thank Dr. Middleburgh for his article about saying Kaddish for a deceased pet. A week ago, I had to have my dog put to sleep. He was 14 years old and suffering from an enlarged heart. It was one of the most difficult things I have ever had to do.

We had known Barkley from the time he was a puppy. He was family. I thought there had to be a prayer to say for a pet, but could find nothing in any of our prayer books. I could not bring myself to ask our rabbi, as I could not even talk about my poor pet without bursting into tears. I had held him in my arms while the drugs to put him to sleep were administered. He died peacefully and (it seemed to me) with relief. Yet, I still felt that I needed to say some prayer for him.

I finally decided to resort to the internet and found Rabbi Middleburgh's article. I immediately said Kaddish for Barkley and now feel that I have fulfilled all of my obligations to my little friend.

Beatrice Ferraro
 

Reply from Frank and Mary Hoffman

Dear Beatrice:

We�re sorry to hear about Barkley�s death, and know how traumatic such an experience can be, having gone through it ourselves.

Be assured he�s with God.

In the Love of the Lord,

Frank and Mary

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