 Rainbow Bridge    Last
year 7,743 dogs in the Uk were destroyed in pounds.
Through No Fault of their own Run Free  |
|
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 |
Unlike most days at Rainbow Bridge, This day dawned cold and gray, damp as a swamp and as dismal as could be imagined. All of the recent arrivals had no idea what to think, as they had never experienced a day like this before. But the animals who had been waiting for their beloved people knew exactly what was going on and started to gather at the pathway leading to The Bridge to watch. It wasn't long before an elderly animal came into view, head hung low and tail dragging. The other animals, the ones who had been there for a while, knew what his story was right away, for they had seen this happen far too often. He approached slowly, obviously in great emotional pain, but with no sign of injury or illness. Unlike all of the other animals waiting at The Bridge, this animal had not been restored to youth and made healthy and vigorous again. As he walked toward The Bridge, he watched all of the other animals watching him. He knew he was out of place here and the sooner he could cross over, the happier he would be. But, alas, as he approached The Bridge, his way was barred by the appearance of an Angel who apologized, but told him that he would not be able to pass. Only those animals who were with their people could pass over Rainbow Bridge. With no place else to turn to, the elderly animal turned towards the fields before The Bridge and saw a group of other animals like himself, also elderly and infirm. They weren't playing, but rather simply lying on the green grass, forlornly staring out at the pathway leading to The Bridge. And so, he took his place among them, watching the pathway and waiting. One of the newest arrivals at The Bridge didn't understand what he had just witnessed and asked one of the animals that had been there for awhile to explain it to him. "You see, that poor animal was a rescue. He was turned in to rescue just as you see him now, an older animal with his fur graying and his eyes clouding. He never made it out of rescue and passed on with only the love of his rescuer to comfort him as he left his earthly existence. Because he had no family to give his love to, he has no one to escort him across The Bridge." The first animal thought about this for a minute and then asked, "So what will happen now?" As he was about to receive his answer, the clouds suddenly parted and the gloom lifted. Approaching The Bridge could be seen a single person, and among the older animals, a whole group was suddenly bathed in a golden light and they were all young and healthy again, just as they were in the prime of life. "Watch, and see," said the second animal. A second group of animals from those waiting came to the pathway and bowed low as the person neared. At each bowed head, the person offered a pat on the head or a scratch behind the ears. The newly restored animals fell into line and followed her towards The Bridge. They all crossed The Bridge together. "What happened?" "That was a rescuer. The animals you saw bowing in respect were those who found new homes because of her work. They will cross when their new families arrive. Those you saw restored were those who never found homes. When a rescuer arrives, they are allowed to perform one, final act of rescue. They are allowed to escort those poor animals that they couldn't place on earth across The Rainbow Bridge." "I think I like rescuers", said the first animal. "So does GOD", was the reply. |
A Letter From Your Pet In Heaven To my dearest family,some things I'd like to say. But first of all, to let you know,that I arrived okay. I'm writing this from the Bridge.Here I dwell with God above. Here there's no more tears of sadness.Here is just eternal love. Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight. Remember that I am with you every morning, noon and night. That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through, God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you. It's good to have you back again,you were missed while you were gone. As for your dearest family,They'll be here later on." God gave me a list of things,that he wished for me to do. And foremost on the list,was to watch and care for you. And when you lie in bed at night the day's chores put to flight, God and I are closest to you...in the middle of the night. When you think of my life on earth,and all those loving years, because you are only human,they are bound to bring you tears. But do not be afraid to cry:it does relieve the pain. Remember there would be no flowers,unless there was some rain. I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned. If I were to tell you,you wouldn't understand. But one thing is for certain,though my life on earth is o'er. I'm closer to you now,than I ever was before. There are rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;But together we can do it by taking one day at a time.It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too;That as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain;Then you can say to God at night... "My day was not in vain."And now I am contented... that my life was worthwhile.Knowing as I passed along I made somebody smile.God says: "If you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low;Just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.When you're walking down the street with me on your mind;I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.""And when it's time for you to go... from that body to be free.Remember you're not going... you're coming here to me." |
|
listen
with your heart.
I was so very tired and knew my time on earth would fade. I saw a wondrous image then of a place that's trouble-free Where all of us can meet again to spend eternity. I saw the most beautiful Rainbow, and on the other side Were meadows rich and beautiful -- lush and green and wide! And running through the meadows as far as the eye could see Were animals of every sort as healthy as could be! My own tired, failing body was fresh and healed and new And I wanted to go run with them, but I had something left to do. I needed to reach out to you, to tell you I'm alright That this place is truly wonderful, then a bright Glow pierced the night. 'Twas the Glow of many Candles shining bright and strong and bold And I knew then that it held your love in its brilliant shades of gold. For although we may not be together in the way we used to be, We are still connected by a cord no eye can see. So whenever you need to find me, we're never far apart If you look beyond the Rainbow and listen with your heart. |
Dog On Loan "I'll lend you for a little time, a dog of mine God said. For you to love while she lives and mourn when she is dead. The years they may be six or ten or even as few as three. But will you, 'til I call her back, take care of her for me? She'll bring her charms to gladden you, and shall her stay be brief, You'll have her lovely memories as solace for your grief. I cannot promise she will stay, since all from Earth return, But there are lessons taught down there I want this dog to learn. I've looked the wide world over, in my search for masters true, And from the throngs that crowd life's lanes, I have selected you. Now will you give her your love, nor think the labor vain, Nor hate me when I come to call to take her back again? We answered in sincerity, Dear Lord, Thy will be done. For all the joy this dog shall bring, the risk of grief we'll run. We'll shelter her with tenderness, and love her while we may, And for the happiness we will know, we'll ever grateful stay. But shall the angels call for her much sooner than we planned, We'll know the bitter grief that comes and try to understand." |
A special poem for you..... From Friend To Friend You're giving me a special gift, So sorrowfully endowed, And through these last few cherished days, Your courage makes me proud. But really, love is knowing When your best friend is in pain, And understanding earthly acts Will only be in vain. So looking deep into your eyes, Beyond, into your soul, I see in you the magic, that will Once more make me whole. The strength that you possess, Is why I look to you today, To do this thing that must be done, For it's the only way. That strength is why I've followed you, And chose you as my friend, And why I've loved you all these years... My partner 'til the end. Please, understand just what this gift, You're giving, means to me, It gives me back the strength I've lost, And all my dignity. You take a stand on my behalf, For that is what friends do. And know that what you do is right, For I believe it too. So one last time, I breathe your scent, And through your hand I feel, The courage that's within you, To now grant me this appeal. Cut the leash that holds me here, Dear friend, and let me run, Once more a strong and steady dog, My pain and struggle done. And don't despair my passing, For I won't be far away, Forever here, within your heart, And memory I'll stay. I'll be there watching over you, Your ever faithful friend, And in your memories I'll run, ....a young dog once again. |
|
If it should be that I grow frail and weak And pain should keep me from my sleep, Then will you do what must be done, For this -- the last battle -- can't be won. You will be sad I understand, But don't let grief then stay your hand, For on this day, more than the rest, Your love and friendship must stand the test. We have had so many happy years, You wouldn't want me to suffer so. When the time comes, please, let me go. Take me to where my needs they'll tend, Only, stay with me till the end And hold me firm and speak to me Until my eyes no longer see. I know in time you will agree It is a kindness you do for me. Although my tail its last has waved, From pain and suffering I have been saved. Don't grieve that it must be you Who has to decide this thing to do; We've been so close -- we two -- these years, Don't let your heart hold any tears. |
|
WHEN TOMORROW STARTS WITHOUT ME Author Unknown When tomorrow starts without me, And I'm not there to see; The sun will rise and find your eyes All filled with tears for me. I wish so much you wouldn't cry The way you did today, Remembering how I'd lay my head In your lap that special way. I know how much you love me, As much as I love you, And each time that you think of me, I know you'll miss me too. But when tomorrow starts without me. Please try to understand, That an angel came and called my name And petted me with her hand. She said my place was ready, In Heaven far above, And that I'd have to leave behind All those I dearly love. But, as I turned to heel away, A tear fell from my eye, For all my life I never thought That I would have to die. I had so much to live for, So many sits and downs to do, It seemed almost impossible, That I was leaving you. I thought about our lives together, I know you must be sad, I thought of all the love we shared, And all the fun we had. Remember how I'd nudge your hand, And poke you with my nose? The frisbee I would gladly chase, The bad guy, I'd "bark and hold". If I could relive yesterday, Just even for awhile, I'd wag my tail and kiss you, Just so I could see you smile. But, then I fully realized, That this could never be; For emptiness and memories Will take the place of me. And when I thought of treats and toys, I might miss come tomorrow, I thought of you and when I did, My dog-heart filled with sorrow. But then I walked through Heaven's gate, And felt so much at home; As God looked down and smiled at me, From His beautiful golden throne. He said, "This is eternity, And now we welcome you, Today your life on earth is past, But here it starts anew. I promise no tomorrow, But today will always last; For you see, each days's the same day, There's no longing for the past. Now you have been so faithful, So trusting, loyal and true; Though there were times you did things, You knew you shouldn't do. But good dogs are forgiven, And now at last you're free; So won't you sit here by my side, And wait right here with me?" So when tomorrow starts without me, Don't think we're far apart. For every time you think of me, I'm right there, in your heart |
|
The Legacy When humans die, they make a will To leave their homes and all they have To those they love. I, too, would make a will if I could write. To some poor wistful lonely stray I leave my happy home, My dish, my cosy bed, my cushioned chair, my toy, The well loved lap, the gently stroking hand, The loving voice, The place I made in someone’s heart, The love, that at the last could help me to A peaceful painless end Held in loving arms. If I should die Oh do not say, "No more a pet I’ll have To grieve me by it’s loss" Seek out some lonely, unloved dog And give my place to him. This is my legacy I leave behind ‘Tis all I have to give. |
Should you go First Should you go first and I remain to walk the road alone I'll live in memory's garden, with happy days we've known in Spring I'll wait for roses red, when fades the lilacs blue, in early fall, when brown leaves call I'll catch a glimpse of you Should you go first, and I remain for battles to be fought, each thing you've touched along the way will be a hallowed spot I'll hear your bark; I'll see your face, though blindly I may grope the memory of your helping paws will buoy me on with hope Should you go first and I remain to finish with the scroll, no length'ning shadows shall creep in to make this life seem droll We've known so much of happiness we've had our cup of joy, and memory is one gift of God that death cannot destroy Should you go first and I remain, one thing I'd have you do; walk slowly down that long, lonely path, for soon I'll follow you I'll want to know each step you took that I may walk the same, for some day down that lonely road you'll hear me call your name; |
|
To have loved and then said farewell, is better than to have never loved at all. For all of the times that you have stooped and touched my head, fed me my favorite treat and returned the love that I so unconditionally gave to you. For the care that you gave to me so unselfishly. For all of these things I am grateful and thankful. I ask that you not grieve for the loss, but rejoice in the fact that we lived, loved and touched each others lives. My life was fuller because you were there, not as a master/owner, but as my FRIEND. Today I am as I was in my youth. The grass is always green, butterflies flit among the flowers and the Sun shines gently down upon all of God's creatures. I can run, jump, play and do all of the things that I did in my youth. There is no sickness, no aching joints and no regrets and no aging. We await the arrival of our lifelong companions and know that togetherness is forever. You live in our hearts as we do in yours. Companions such as you are so rare and unique. Don't hold the love that you have within yourself. Give it to another like me and then I will live forever. For love never really dies, and you are loved and missed as surely as we are. |
|
We can all make a difference, here is a very famous poem, which applies to rescue and to this particular thread. The Starfish There was a young man walking down a deserted beach just before dawn. In the distance he saw a frail old man. As he approached the old man, he saw him picking up stranded starfish and throwing them back into the sea. The young man gazed in wonder as the old man again and again threw the small starfish from the sand into the water. He asked, "Old man, why do you spend so much energy doing what seems to be a waste of time?" The old man explained that the stranded starfish would die if left in the morning sun. "But there must be thousands of beaches and millions of starfish!" exclaimed the young man. "How can you make any difference?" The old man looked down at the small starfish in his hand and as he threw it to the safety of the sea, he said, "I make a difference to this one |
|
NOBODY'S DOG Today is the death day of nobody's dog Nothing will mark it but a note in the log I'm faceless and nameless and no tears will fall For I know in your world I have no worth at all To you, my sweet someone, I'm a friend and a dear We ran the wind daily and you held me so near But the gate was left open - I chanced a walk on my own I'd have cowered in fear if only I'd known I know how you cried on the night that I strayed I know how you searched, I know how you prayed But I went to a pound far far from our home Where I crouched in despair in my kennel alone I know that you phoned for I heard your dear voice And I hoped you would hear me so I barked myself hoarse Although I'm a Lab cross with stockings all white On their form I'm a Staff cross - the description's not right So they said I'm not here and I sank to my bed My kennel cough's worse and I can't raise my head The rescue came yesterday but they hadn't a place For an un-neutered cross breed with his mucus-streaked face If only you'd come to search for me here You would have known me at once, you would have sensed I was near You would have sorted my ills, you would have carried me home And I promise our God no more would I roam Now my eyes plead for mercy for my seven days are done And I am waiting with dread for the final vet run No arms will caress me as they inject me to death No words will comfort me as I take my last breath When the body man comes, it is fitting I'm found In a bin bag in the freezer in the depths of the pound Thrown away like the rubbish - no respect and no shame Denied even the time to find you again My loyalty and devotion they did cruelly betray Without microchip or nametag, I am just a dispensable stray Once waggy-tailed, once proud, beloved and free Oh Dad look with pain at what mankind's done to me! hope anyone that reads this and doesnt have their dog micro chipped Thinks twice and anyone thinking of buying a puppy too, |
|
My Last Goodbye One by one they pass by my cage, Too old,too worn,too broken..no way, Way past his time..he cant run and play. They shake their heads and go on their way. A litle old man,arthritic and sore.. It seems I am not wanted anymore. Now I sit in this cage,where day after day, The younger dogs get adopted away. I had come to the end of my rope, When you came by to give me hope. You saw through the gray and legs bent with age, I felt I still had life beyond this cage. I may have lived most of my life with another, But you outshone them with a love much stronger, I promised to return all the love I can give, To YOU,my dear person as long as I live. I may be with you for a week or for years, We will share smiles and no doubt shed tears. And when the time comes that God deems I must leave, I know you will cry and in your heart will grieve, But when I arrive at the bridge,all brand new, My thoughts and my heart I will leave with you, But I will brag to all who will hear, Of the love of the person who made my last days so dear. |
|
May I go now? Do you think the time is right? May I say goodbye to pain filled days and endless lonely nights? I've lived my life and done my best, an example tried to be. So can I take that step beyond and set my spirit free? I didn't want to go at first, I fought with all my might. But something seems to draw me now to a warm and loving light. I want to go. I really do. It's difficult to stay. But I will try as best I can to live just one more day. To give you time to care for me and share your love and fears. I know you're sad and afraid, because I see your tears. I'll not be far, I promise that, and hope you'll always know that my spirit will be close to you wherever you may go. Thank you so for loving me. You know I love you, too. That's why it's hard to say goodbye and end this life with you. So hold me now just one more time and let me hear you say, because you care so much for me, you'll let me go today |
|
When I'm Gone When I'm gone, don't cry for me. Please smile each time you think of me. I'm not beneath the ground you see. Each breeze that blows is part of me. I'm in the clouds so soft and white. My eyes will shine in stars at night. Don't think of me as gone for good. I'll be around. You knew I would. I'm watching everything you do. I am still sharing life with you. No need to look both far and near. Just listen close. I am right here. I'm here to listen every day To all the things you want to say. I've seen you cry so many tears. Be glad we had so many years. I'll wait until you come to me. Our lives will be like they used to be. We'll both be whole and free of pain, My life with you will be back again. Please take the love you gave to me And give to more that are just like me. So when I'm gone, don't cry for me. But smile each time you think of me. |
|
The Last Battle If it should be that I grow frail and weak And pain should keep me from my sleep, Then will you do what must be done, For this -- the last battle -- can't be won. You will be sad I understand, But don't let grief then stay your hand, For on this day, more than the rest, Your love and friendship must stand the test. We have had so many happy years, You wouldn't want me to suffer so. When the time comes, please, let me go. Take me to where to my needs they'll tend, Only, stay with me till the end And hold me firm and speak to me Until my eyes no longer see. I know in time you will agree It is a kindness you do to me. Although my tail its last has waved, From pain and suffering I have been saved. Don't grieve that it must be you Who has to decide this thing to do; We've been so close -- we two -- these years, Don't let your heart hold any tears. |
|
FROM FRIEND TO FRIEND You're giving me a special gift, So sorrowfully endowed, And through these last few cherished days, Your courage makes me proud. But really, love is knowing When your best friend is in pain, And understanding earthly acts Will only be in vain. So looking deep into your eyes, Beyond, into your soul, I see in you the magic, that will Once more make me whole. The strength that you possess, Is why I look to you today, To do this thing that must be done, For it's the only way. That strength is why I've followed you, And chose you as my friend, And why I've loved you all these years... My partner 'til the end. Please, understand just what this gift, You're giving, means to me, It gives me back the strength I've lost, And all my dignity. You take a stand on my behalf, For that is what friends do. And know that what you do is right, For I believe it too. So one last time, I breathe your scent, And through your hand I feel, The courage that's within you, To now grant me this appeal. Cut the leash that holds me here, Dear friend, and let me run, Once more a strong and steady dog, My pain and struggle done. And don't despair my passing, For I won't be far away, Forever here, within your heart, And memory I'll stay. I'll be there watching over you, Your ever faithful friend, And in your memories I'll run, ...a young dog
once again.
|
YOU HAVE CHOSEN TEARS "Mummy said it has to
be a mistake. She said I wasn't supposed to come here yet," she howled. “Why? Because I was so sick?" she whimpered. This surprised the little girl. But,
after a time, the Loving Ones came back to the Angel in Charge. |
PLEASE SPARE A THOUGHT FOR THE DOG BEING DESTROYED TOMORROW  Did you know that lost and abandoned dogs picked up by dog wardens and the police and placed in council pounds May only have ONE WEEK TO LIVE! The pounds are only required to hold lost and abandoned dogs for SEVEN DAYS And on the EIGHTH DAY are entitled to destroy them if they are not reclaimed by owners or taken by rescues. Dogs end up in pounds through no fault of their own. Some are much loved lost pets or their owners have sadly died; but many are the innocent victims of an uncaring and throwaway society. They are abandoned because they need medical treatment, have been abused, are no longer the cute puppy purchased at Christmas, are victims of marriage break-downs etc etc. Sadly with so many strays being brought in every day, many of these lovely dogs lose their lives Simply because there is no kennel space to hold them. Bye Baby No more lonely cold nights or hearing that I'm bad No more growling belly from the meals I never had No more scorching sunshine with a water bowl thats dry No more complaining neighbours about the noise when I cry No more hearing 'shut up', 'get down' 'get out of here' No more feeling disliked only peace is in the air Euthanasia is a blessing, though some still can't see Why I was ever born, if I weren't meant to be My last day of living was the best I ever had Someone held me very close, I could see she was so sad I kissed the lady's face and she hugged me as she cried I wagged my tail to thank her, then I closed my eyes and..... died. |
