rpadminIt is said that dogs have the mental faculty of an 8 year old child. The number varies, but what we do know is they certainly have the innocence and optimism of a child. And that’s why our pets hold such a special place in our hearts.
And when they pass, its a different kind of grief altogether. Not just the “selfish” griefs because we miss them so terribly but also because we worry if they will be alright. We worry they will be lost or frightened or lonely or even hungry.
And that’s why we love this story/poem so much that it inspired our name. It’s by an anonymous author and whoever it was wrote this, thank you for the comfort it has given so many.
Here it is in its original form:
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….