Kirsten Every year on the 28th of August, people around the world observe Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day. It is a day dedicated to remembering the beloved pets who are no longer with us but who continue to hold a special place in our hearts.
The day takes its meaning from the well-known poem The Rainbow Bridge. The poem describes a beautiful meadow on the edge of heaven where pets go when they pass away. In this place, they are restored to perfect health, free from pain, and spend their days running and playing together in the sunshine. When the time comes for their human family to arrive, the pet recognises them instantly and runs into their arms. Then, side by side, they cross the Rainbow Bridge together, never to be parted again.
Here is the poem in full:
The Rainbow Bridge
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 the 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 vigour;
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 the Rainbow Bridge together…
— Author unknown
(often attributed to Paul C. Dahm, a grief counsellor, who published a version in 1981).
When I think about the ‘Rainbow Bridge’, I imagine that peaceful meadow filled with wagging tails, soft purrs, happy chirps, and playful paws. I see pets waiting patiently, their eyes full of love and recognition, ready for that moment of reunion. This vision brings comfort, reminding us that while our pets may no longer be by our side, the bond we share is unbroken.
On this day, people remember in their own way. Some light candles, some share stories and photos, and others take quiet time to reflect on the unconditional love their pets gave. It is a day not only of remembrance, but also of gratitude.
This Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day, may you find peace in the vision of the meadow, comfort in your memories, and hope in the thought that love lives forever.
Pet Memorial Creations
At Purple Tree Pets, we understand how deeply you love and miss your companions. That is why we create handcrafted resin pet memorials, designed to help keep their memory close. From beautiful keepsakes made with your pet’s cremains to unique pieces that celebrate their spirit, our memorial items provide comfort and a lasting tribute to the love you shared.
