The bond between dog and human transcends even death. For those of us who have lost a loving companion, we know that the death of a dog is similar to the death of a family member. Grieving dog owners all over the world have grieved these losses, and have found different ways to honor the passing of our cherished dogs. Rainbow Dog Bridge Poem is one of the ways humans have been able to collectively mourn and comfort each other following the loss of furry best friends.
The Rainbow Dog Bridge Poem was written by Edna Clyne-Rekhy in 1959; however, her identity as the author was a mystery until the 1990s. She wrote the poem to honor the passing of her dog, Major, when she was 19 years old. The poem was shared by hand through the second half of the 1900s. After appearing in a Dear Abby article in 1994, Rainbow Bridge Dog Poem quickly gained attention and popularity. Dear Abby requested its readers to find the original author. Paul Koudounaris, an author and art historian, discovered that Clyne-Rekhy was the author in 1995. People had been searching for the original author for decades, and Clyne-Rekhy did not know that her poem had received such notoriety until she was informed by Paul Koudunaris.
What makes this poem so incredibly moving? The poem depicts a dog crossing a rainbow bridge after its death to a place of health and happiness. In the imagined afterlife, the dog is reconnected with health, joy, and a bountiful life while waiting for their owner to meet them on the other side of the rainbow bridge. The poem describes the inevitable meeting again of dog and owner, full of emotion, love and support. Although it may be impossible to heal completely from the death of your dog, this poem offers hope that we will be able to experience this cherished companionship again. Rainbow Bridge Dog Poem offers us the thought that our trusted companion may also serve as a support as we approach the end of life and move to the other side.
What are the words to the Rainbow Bridge Dog Poem?
It is important to note that there are slight differences in some versions of the poem, but one of the versions and its moving words are included below:
The Rainbow Bridge Poem:
Just this side of Heaven is a place called the 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 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 begins to quiver.
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 to each other 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.
Then you cross the Rainbow Bridge together…
Printable Rainbow Bridge Dog Poem
There are various printable options of the Rainbow Bridge Dog Poem on the internet. From simple text to colorful images, people can select the most appropriate version for themselves. People have even created works of art to depict the imagery of this beautiful poem. If you search for “Rainbow Bridge Pet Poem Printable” you can find various options. Printable versions can also be a thoughtful condolence gift for a friend who has lost a dog.
Healing in Collective Grief:
The Rainbow Bridge Dog Poem has transcended its original intent to provide private solace to a grieving dog owner. Now this poem is shared widely, used in memorial services, referenced in the media, and has even been forever etched onto a pet’s gravestones. A piece of literature that has touched the hearts and comforted the souls of grieving dog owners, Rainbow Bridge Dog Poem is more than just a poem. It has allowed for support and hope in a time of grief. This poem speaks to the collective experience of grieving our dogs, and honors the memory of the forever friendship that lasts for an eternity.
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