I Know You Were a Good Dog

Although I never knew your name,
I know you were a good dog.

Although I knew you only a very very short time,
I know you were a good dog.

You deserved a safe and caring family full of love and fun, walks and playing.
I know you were a good dog.

Your last chapter of this life found you on the streets trying your best to survive. You did the best you could. If your past was a past of abuse, neglect, and other terrible things, I apologize for those person or persons in your past that did that to you. They had no right to do that.
I know you were a good dog.

In your final days on this earth, please know that you were loved and cared about. When your journey here was finished, you peacefully went to the Rainbow Bridge. You are now free never to be hurt again.
I know you were a good dog.

RL Williams, Jacksonville Florida, April 24, 2006

The 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 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. Her bright eyes are intent. Her eager body quivers. Suddenly the animal begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, its legs carrying her 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...

(Original author unknown)