The loss of a pet, a family member, greatly impacts us.  May you find comfort in the words and memories shared on this page.  These furry friends are no longer with us, but we remember them fondly.  Please submit pictures and kind words of remembrance if you would like to share with us.  

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 that 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...

Samba Follis 10/1/97 ~ 7/11/11

 Preserving your Memories

While everyone deals with loss differently, many find it helpful to memorialize their companion.  

• Frame a photograph
• Keep a clipping of hair
• Make a clay pawprint
• Compile a photo album, scrapbook, or DVD
• Fill a memory box with belongings such as collar, tags, toys
• Choose a special urn for your pet's cremains
• Put some ashes or hair into cremation jewelry
• Hold a burial or memorial ceremony
• Design a plaque or marker
• Plant a tree or flowers to honor your pet
• Volunteer time or donations to a special cause in your pet's memory
  

"Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened."

~Dr. Seuss

For additional information on pet loss, please visit CARE or call 877-394-2273 for the Pet Loss Helpline.