Rufus

I found out this morning that Rufus, my best friend Nicole's dog, died in his sleep last night. Rufus was 15 years old and got sick very suddenly on Monday... After a struggle at home and at the vet, Rufus went to wait for Nicole at the Rainbow Bridge last night.

My heart is aching not only because of his passing but because of my best friend's loss too. She is in Oklahoma so I can't hug her from so far away, but I am sending her hugs and love and support and know that she and Rufus will one day be reunited. He had a good life with her - she and her husband spoiled Rufus (and their other 2 dogs) so Rufus knew he was loved. It doesn't help their pain now, but he had a good life and now is in a better place where he's not suffering anymore.

Rest in peace Rufus. You will be missed forever.

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....