Here's the last batch of the best suggestions from my mailbox. Thanks to everyone who took the time to  put their thoughts and ideas into writing. 

We can't clutter our forests with teddy bears. That could start a trend that could lead to something really ugly. If needed, take a picture with your bear, say your good-byes and let him go. It is not possible that he could ever leave your heart. - Anne

In 'The Velveteen Rabbit' by Marjory Williams, the Skin Horse, a venerable old toy who had been loved to worn outness, tells the Velveteen Rabbit about becoming real, that it happens when someone (a child) really loves you. When your bear has become real, he or she is part of you. If it is time to let the well loved and well worn physical form of the bear go, plant a beautiful tree over your bear in a place you know will make you happy and will bring happiness to many others. Maybe there are children who can help you with this ritual. - Sue

Maybe hold a 'funeral' and bury your teddy bear? Alternatively, animal shelters and veterinarian clinics are always looking for animal-safe toys (as well as old sheets, towels, and linens... another good way to get rid of things too old and ratty for charities to accept). Perhaps you could take some photos of it to remember it by, then donate it to an animal shelter as a companion for one of the animals? - Melissa

There are many crafts people who may wish to use old teddy bears and toys to reclaim the materials used. The materials can be taken apart and used in a new bear or toy: eg fabric, eye buttons, etc. Some of these old teddy bears have very valuable parts to them that are difficult to find now. At least you may be comforted by the idea that your teddy bear is being created anew - and your fond memories are going with it. Advertising your bear's parts on sites such as the Freecycle (non-profit global recycling) site may be the way to go. - Jennifer

Getting rid of a well-loved teddy bear (no matter how much one feels one has moved on) is like getting rid of part of one's soul. OK, they're cloth and stuffing with beady glass or shoebutton eyes, but like many of the comments I've read, they have the imprint of love someone has put there. I mean, you and that bear have a history together, much like a person and their dog or cat (which you wouldn't euthanize and bury unless it was suffering). How much space can ONE bear take up? Get rid of something else you don't need, such as that kitschy plastic statue Aunt Clara sent you from San Francisco. I still have my first teddy bear from 48 years ago, plus the one my mother gave me the year she passed away, and a tiny beanie my fiance and I bought together (we take her everywhere). Three bears, two grown-ups. - Diane

I think the burial would be the best way. Do a little ceremony and let go. Dust to dust. An acknowledgment, in ritual, for a best friend. - Fenella

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