So sorry to hear that LadyM
I know how you feel.... all our pets are as much a part of our family as those of us who think we are human. We lost our cat similar to what you described....was gone and found near the house monthes later, and then last Christmas our Golden Retriever "Sadie" got very sick and left us.
Amazing how they become so much a part of our lives. Although we have a new pup, not many days pass when I don't miss Sadie laying here by my feet while I work.
Feel better..
Ivy