It's a very-difficult thing to have to release a soul to the Universe.  When we help our animal companions out, we do it out of love, but that doesn't make it easy.  Each brought special joy to our lives, and they are truly missed.  Animals are gifts from God, bestowed upon us to help make our journey on this miserable planet a little-more enjoyable.  It's why I disdain people who kill animals wantonly and for "fun."