Rainbow Bridge

As I explained in my last post our Brittany Bridget passed away. What I did not explain is that she was diagnosed with Congestive Heart Failure a few months ago and with medication we were able to extend her life a few extra months. However, on Saturday when we returned home from the Will McLean Folk Festival it was clear that she was in pain and having a very difficult time breathing. Not wanting to watch her suffer I decided it was time to have her humanely put to sleep.  Since it was 7:30 in the evening on a Saturday our Veterinarian's answering service referred me to the all night Affiliated Veterinary Emergency Center on Southside Blvd. at Beach Blvd. I quickly transported her to the Emergency Center but God had a different idea for the end of Bridget's life. He took her humanely by stopping her heart just as I arrived at the Emergency Center.  The technicians took her in only to immediately pronounce to me that Bridget's heart had stopped.  Their services were not needed so they helped me prepare her for the ride home so I could bury her next to our first dog Murphy.  Today, I received a very nice card from the staff at Atlantic Veterinary Emergency Center.  On the front of the card is a very touching story about pets entitled Rainbow Bridge. So for all you NatureIsReal followers here are the very special words of Rainbow Bridge. I recommend a tissue in your hand before you start reading the following words.

Rainbow Bridge

Just this side of heaven lies the Rainbow Bridge.

When a beloved pet dies, it goes to the Rainbow Bridge. It makes friends with other animals and frolics over rolling hills and peaceful, lush meadows of green.

Our pets do not thirst or hunger. The old and sick are made young once more; the maimed and the ill become healed and strong. They are as healthy and playful as we remember them in days gone by.

Though happy and content, they still miss someone very special, someone they had to leave behind.

Together, the animals chase and play, but the day comes when a pet will suddenly stop and look into the distance...bright eyes intent, eager body quivering. Suddenly recognizing you, your pet bounds quickly across the green fields and into your embrace. You celebrate in joyous reunion. You will never again separate. Happy tears and kisses are warm and plenty; your hands caress the face you missed.  You look once more into the loving eyes of your pet and know you never really parted. You realize that though out of sight, your love had been remembered.

And now you cross the Rainbow Bridge together...

Written by M. A. Preston

Thank you to the staff of the Affiliated Veterinary Emergency Center, your card is very special to me.