Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge. When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart. Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....By Paul C. Dahm

 

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You're giving me a special gift

So sorrowfully endowed,

And through these last few cherished days

Your courage makes me proud.

 

But really love is knowing

When your best friend is in pain,

And understanding earthly acts

Will only be in vain.

 

So looking deep into your eyes

Beyond into your soul,

I see in you the magic that will

Once more make me whole.

 

The strength that you possess

Is why I look to you today,

To do this thing that must be done

For it's the only way.

 

That strength is why I've followed you

And chose you as my friend,

And why I've loved you all these years

My partner 'til the end.

 

Please understand just what this gift

You're giving means to me,

It gives me back the strength I've lost

And all my dignity.

 

You take a stand on my behalf

For that is what friends do,

And know that what you do is right

For I believe it too.

 

So one last time I breathe your scent

And through your hand I feel,

The courage that's within you

To now grant me this appeal.

 

Cut the leash that holds me here

Dear friend and let me run,

Once more a strong and steady dog

My pain and struggle done.

 

And don't despair my passing

For I won't be far away,

Forever here, within your heart

And memory I will stay.

 

I will be there watching over you

Your ever faithful friend,

And in your memories I will run

A young dog once again.