Loss of a Pet

Sadly during our stay in BC my grandparents lost their pet Sally. I met Sally five years ago; she and Lucy became instant friends. Sally a Sheltie mix and Lucy a terrier mix matched each other in size and were perfect playmates. They would have a system going where one would tell us they would have to go outside and of course with each outing we would reward them with a treat, but we couldn’t just give one the treat without giving the other one as well. So it went, Sally would go outside, come in get a treat and a few minutes later Lucy would do the same; the two made it so they would get double amount of treats.

Five years the dogs were separated; the distance of Ontario and BC keeping them apart. This time age had its bearing, Sally’s legs bothered her and Lucy checked her over, sniffing her intently--I believe sensing there was something more serious at hand. It wasn’t until near the end of our visit around April that Sally went suddenly blind. The veterinarian checked her for diabetes but it wasn’t so, her breathing became labored and finally my grandparents had to put her to sleep for there was nothing else they could do. The vet suspected it was lymphoma.

The house is now oddly quiet and there’s a lack of movement—the feeling of loss tangible. It wasn’t more than a week after they put her down when my grandparents got a card of condolence from the veterinarian, in it was a beautiful note called; Rainbow Bridge. We read it with my grandmother unable to keep the tears from our eyes. It’s a wonderful piece of writing that I had to share.

Rest in peace Sally.




Rainbow Bridge

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 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 …

Author unknown