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If you've said goodbye to a dearly loved pet, you know there's a special kind of sadness that accompanies this sort of loss. The grief you may experience after losing a pet is not to be diminished or underestimated. It is real, it is valid and there's nothing else quite like it. That deeply felt grief is a product of the daily joy and true connection you shared with an unforgettable friend.
If we told you there's a prose poem that may help just a bit, would you believe us? It's called The Rainbow Bridge. Though its exact origins remain a mystery, the poem has been a source of comfort for grieving pet owners since the 1980s. Several authors have been credited over the years, but what matters most is the enduring message: that the bond between you and your pet transcends even death. The poem has been shared millions of times online and has become one of the most recognized works of consolation for pet loss in the world.
"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 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
We're not crying, you're crying! And you know what? It's okay to feel all the feels when you imagine your pet playing happily, but still waiting for you...
Honoring Your Pet's Memory
When you're ready, there are many meaningful ways to honor the memory of your beloved companion. Some pet owners find comfort in creating a small memorial space at home—a photo, a paw print, or a favorite toy displayed in a special place. Others choose to plant a tree or dedicate a garden stone in their pet's honor. Whatever feels right to you is the right choice. The goal is not to "move on" but to carry your pet's memory forward in a way that brings you peace.
Click here to read our Pet Farewelling piece.
Recommended Memorial Products
Meaningful keepsakes to honor the memory of your beloved pet:
- Pet Paw Print Kit Frame - Capture your pet's unique paw print in a beautiful display frame.
- Rainbow Bridge Garden Stone - A heartfelt garden memorial featuring the Rainbow Bridge poem.
- Pet Memorial Suncatcher - A colorful suncatcher that creates rainbow reflections in memory of your pet.
- I'll Always Love You by Hans Wilhelm - A gentle children's book about saying goodbye to a beloved pet, perfect for all ages.
