The Rainbow Bridge: Pet Poem and Meaning

Before we talk about the meaning behind the Rainbow Bridge, here is a look at the poem itself:

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….

(Author Unknown)

What is the Rainbow Bridge?

The Rainbow Bridge is a thematic poem or prose that was written during the year 1980 that is concentrated on the subject of pet loss. It refers to a heavenly place where the pets go after they die where they will eventually reunite with their masters. It is a part of the heaven where the owner and the pet will never again be separated. The belief has a striking similarity to the Bifrost Bridge found in Norse Mythology. Since its inception, a lot of pet loss poem has been composed by different pet lovers who are going through the excruciating pain of losing a pet.

The Rainbow Bridge: Comforting the Owners through Tough Times

Rainbow Bridge is not only restricted for people who appreciate a lovely poem. In fact, veterinary professionals are utilizing this as a way to comfort the owner after losing a pet. The pet loss poem is depicting that the pet possesses a soul that will take a journey at the afterlife. During their spiritual journey, their full health will be restored, and their body will be rejuvenated. They will no longer suffer pain and sickness.

The poem is so popular because it serves as a comforting piece for the grieving owner and hope that they will be reunited once more with their beloved pet at the Rainbow Bridge. The author of the original poem is still unknown.

Any similarities?

The poem does have some similarity with the Bifrost Bridge wherein the warrior who died valiantly during the war will take a journey to Valhalla. Another similarity of the poem on the mythology would be the idea that the pets will be fully restored; the weak will become strong once again, and the old will become young. According to the pet loss poem, the pet that passed away will wait for their owner at the bridge. They will be reunited when the owner passes, and will cross the bridge together.

The Beauty Behind the Poem

The beauty of the Rainbow Bridge is something that we fully appreciate. As a pet lover, it offers us certain anticipation that we will once again be reunited with our pets. It also gives us that idea that they are doing well on the other side; comforted with the warmth spring season and the beautiful environment. It grants us a feeling of gratitude that the suffering of our pet has ended, and God is now taking good care of them.

The writer of the Rainbow Bridge deserves praise and appreciation from all the lonely soul that it aids during their losing of pets. The author managed to feel the grieving heart of every pet owner. It is definitely a recommended piece of literature that will warm your soul, uplift your heart, and help you to overcome your current depression.