While packing for our move to Stonington, Conn., I came across this wonderful piece a client gave me many years ago. She had recently had her 14-year-old Labrador retriever euthanized for a multitude of issues related to old age.
Along with a kind letter thanking me for the care and support she received while making her difficult decision, she enclosed the following anonymous tribute to pets. I had it framed, and it hung on my office wall for many years. I lost track of it when the practice was sold but happily found it while packing for our move. I felt certain that people who have pets would be touched by its message.
Fred Karotkin, formerly of East Bare Hill Road, is a veterinarian.
He and his wife now live in Stonington, Conn.
The Rainbow Bridge
There is a bridge connecting Heaven and Earth. It is
called the Rainbow Bridge because of its many
colors. Just this side of the Rainbow Bridge there
is a land of meadows, hills and valleys with lush
green grass.
When a beloved pet dies, the pet goes to this place.
There is always food and water and warm spring
weather. The old and frail animals are young
again. Those who are maimed are made whole
again. They play all day with each other.
There is only one thing missing. They are not with
their special person who loved them on earth. So,
each day they run and play until the day comes
when one suddenly stops playing. The ears are up!
The eyes are staring! And this one suddenly
runs from the group.
You have been seen, and when you and your
special friend meet you take him or her in your
arms and embrace. Your face is kissed again
and again and again, as you look once more in
to the eyes of your trusting pet.
Then you cross the Rainbow Bridge together,
never again to be separated.
—Anonymous
