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....

Author unknown