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 the 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 happy.
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigour; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in days 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 run and play until the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. Its bright eyes are intent, its body quivers, and it begins to run faster and faster, away from the group.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. Happy kisses rain upon your face, your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross the Rainbow Bridge together…
On July 9, Pet Adoption and Welfare Society member Carol Freeman-Ryll held a Rainbow Bridge ceremony for her beloved dog, Sheba, by interring her ashes in the memorial garden at the PAWS shelter on Lower Wynndel Road.
The public can bury pet ashes in the garden, with a memorial plaque, for a fee. Contact PAWS at 250-428-7297 for more information. The garden is open 24 hours/day for visitation.
PET ADOPTION AND WELFARE SOCIETY