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 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 have 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 begins to quiver. 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 the Rainbow Bridge together...

-- Anonymous --