Sorry for not seeing this post earlier, but I totally feel your pain, and am so sorry for your loss.

And yes, it hurts to be marginalized by those who don't get it, or like @enginewitty, who get it too well, and can't think of what to say, and/or can't bring themselves to comment. I've been there myself in the past.

Animals absolutely have souls, and I've yet to look deeply into the eyes of any dog, cat, whale or many other species, and not felt another soul looking back into mine. They are our greatest champions, and if we do it right, we are theirs.

I've posted before about the losses of my Newfoundlands, Ebony and Sprinkles, and both were defining moments in my life, that changed me and, ultimately, moved me forward on my spiritual path.

Animals are a gift of love, insight and humor, and I treasure them all, even those I never meet. Wishing you and yours healing and good memories abounding.