{good-bye old friend}

The old man is gone. We woke up today to learn that Louie had passed away in his sleep. For thirteen years, he was our lovable goof-ball who never realized he wasn't a puppy anymore. I've never met another dog quite as silly as he was. Shredding golf balls, eating loaves of bread whole that he stole from the pantry, running out of the house with the pillows from my couch, and chewing up every toy that Will left out in the yard - being a menace was what he did best. But he was a wonderful dog, a loyal friend and it breaks my heart to lose him.

He was Will's kindred spirit - I would say he was his brother from another mother. Both of them had a mischievous side. From the time Will was just a baby, he would sit at the sliding glass door and grin and giggle at Louie. I'm so glad they got a chance to be friends.

I hope there are ducks to chase, rivers to swim and plenty of golf balls to chew in Heaven, dear friend. Until we meet again...






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....