That's very unfortunate, Flick. I know how it feels to lose a pet, a best friend. Having lived alone for so much of my life I've found solace in animals, so they tend to become a big part of my life.
I can't even begin to imagine how it feels to lose one after having it for so many years though.
If you ever need to talk, to vent, you know where to find me. I know how much venting about that stuff helps.