My deep sympathies to Michael and Cubbeegirl.
Michael, I offer this just in case it will help. My little belief system, and I hope and trust it's not mere wishful thinking, is that there are angels who specialize in furbabies. I think these angels come when needed and take the suffering away instantly. Further, I think our departed pets stay close to us until we meet them at the Rainbow Bridge. I believe that we can sometimes catch a sense of them being near. I wish this enduring sense of connection to your beloved pets for you!