Dealing With Pet Loss

by Reverend Kurokami

Copyright 2000

Dealing with pet loss is a very real thing.  When someone or something you have had in your life suddenly leaves you, either peacefully, or in a more unexpected manner, it is normal to grieve.  Of course, we all grieve in different ways, and generally in a fashion we learned growing up, from our own parents and older family members.

Grief is something we should not ignore.  We should allow ourselves to work through it, so that the animal we loved, and indeed, still love, may move onward, and you may also move onward.

One of the best pieces of prose I have ever encountered, is the piece called Rainbow Bridge. 

I have no idea who wrote it.  Indeed, it has been passed around for so many years with no stated author, that I am not sure who knows who wrote it.  But I will include it here.  I hope it will help you through your grief.  And know that your pet will be waiting for you.  Beside 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 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, someone who was 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 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...