Anyone who has ever lost a cherished pet will agree with the above. Overcoming grief is hard but it can be eased by talking about the death of your pet, accepting your feelings - and those around you understanding them and supporting you - taking care of yourself and your family and celebrating the life of your departed furry friend whether it be telling stories about them with those that knew them, enjoying photographs of them or perhaps helping other animals in need.
The concept of the The Rainbow Bridge, first entering the zeitgeist in the 1980s, was something that mourning pet owners grasped onto as part of the healing process. Upon their passing, a pet will find itself in a beautiful Eden-like meadow filled with sunshine. They are pain-free, health and body fully restored, and will run, play and eat unlimited treats until one day, when we ourselves pass, we are reunited and cross the Rainbow Bridge to heaven together. Again. Forever.
I have to admit, I love the thought of it myself and it's brought me comfort as I've buried my face into the neck of so many pets I've had to say goodbye to over the years, telling them "Godspeed, say hello to everyone who has gone before you and I'll see you at the bridge".
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7 Comments
Aug 30, 2022, 4:13:20 PM
Tracy Allard - They're ALL going to be there Linda; oh happy day!
Aug 30, 2022, 10:26:58 AM
Linda Perdue - Beautiful post sharing lots of great information. If all my pets are waiting for me, then I need to be ready to be 'bowled over' - the kisses will be many and the love will be strong!
Aug 27, 2022, 9:36:17 AM
Darlene - Beautiful, Tracy! Thank you for sharing the poems, tributes to some beautiful dogs you have photographed who have crossed the rainbow bridge, and some helpful resources for pet owners. The picture of you and Dingo is perfect - what a beautiful portrait to remember the connection you had with him. xo
Aug 26, 2022, 8:02:09 PM
Jessica - This is so well expressed, Tracy. You do an excellent job helping others help their pets cross the Rainbow Bridge with unforgettable memories.
Aug 26, 2022, 6:24:25 PM
Nicole - I've never seen the other version of the bridge poem. Thanks for sharing.
Aug 26, 2022, 11:46:27 AM
Elaine - I can't thank you enough for the book list, especially the children's books. I will be checking them out. Beautiful photos of your Bridge family.
Aug 26, 2022, 8:19:51 AM
Cahlean - A wonderful collection of history of the Rainbow Bridge along with resources who are the end stages of their pet's life or have lost a pet.