Goodbye dear friend, Gretzki 1991-2006

We had to say goodbye to our friend of 15 years just recently. John and I got our little "brown dog" a couple of weeks after we got married. He has been with us in the good times and the tough times. We will miss him greatly. I remember the day we brought him home, he was small and wiry---full of piss and vinegar. He was my dog from day one, and any one that wanted to be my friend, had to pass his test first. It is a tough decision to say goodbye, but we have to figure out ultimately if we are holding on for our loved ones or ourselves.

Goodbye, sweet Brown Dog, you made us laugh a lot in your 15 years. I can't wait to see you again.

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. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. 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 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....