Dear Mark,
Losing a pet is always difficult. I have lost two loving pet dogs, one at 13 years and the last one was 16 years old. They were both adopted from a shelter and we were always grateful that they were a part of our family. The last one, Trixi was the most difficult. She had bravely survived surgery twice for tumors on her leg, but finally with loss of her hearing and sight and the onset of painful arthritis we had to make the decision to take her out of her misery. We had a wonderful vet with a great staff who helped us with the decision. A good friend who had also lost a dear pet gave me the following “poem” which helped ease our pain. I have since shared it with others and would like to share it with you and others who are pet lovers:

THE RAINBOW BRIDGE

“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 the Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so that they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable. All of 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 miss someone very special; someone who was left behind. They all run and play together, but the day comes when suddenly one stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; his eager body begins to quiver. Suddenly he breaks from the group, flying over the green grass, 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 those trusting eyes, so long gone from your life, but never absent from your heart. Then you cross the Rainbow Bridge together —”
—-Author Unknown

Flo from VA